Jesus Is Our Compassionate Savior

These are the readings for the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

God’s Word for This Week

In today’s gospel, Jesus calls Peter away from his former career as a fisherman. From now on, he will fish for people. Still today, God calls us to trust in Jesus. How does God call? Via strange feelings that pop up within us? No. God calls by messengers who speak his Word, by the power of his Spirit.

Traditional First Lesson – Isaiah 6:1-8

What did Isaiah see, and how did it make him feel?

Isaiah saw and heard the Lord’s glory filling the temple. Isaiah cried: “Woe to me! I am ruined!” He realized that he was a sinful man standing in the presence of the holy God.

What did the Lord do to ease Isaiah’s anxiety?

The Lord had compassion by assuring Isaiah that his sin was paid for and forgiven. Then he called Isaiah to be his prophet.

Supplemental First Lesson – Judges 13:6-24

Manoah and his wife found out about their son Samson via the angel of the Lord. Who was he? (See 13:22.)

The angel of the Lord is God himself, Manoah realized. (From 1 Corinthians 10:4, we deduce that the angel of the Lord in the Old Testament is God the Son.)

Why was Samson to be a Nazirite, set apart for God from birth? (See 13:5.)

God wanted Samson to be a Nazirite because God’s plan was for Samson to begin to deliver Israel from the hands of their oppressive neighbors, the Philistines.

Traditional Second Lesson – 1 Corinthians 14:12b-20

What gift did the Corinthian Christians most desire?

The Corinthians wanted to be able to speak in tongues (real languages that they had never learned, not the gibberish that one often hears).

What goal does Paul suggest we should have as we use our Christian gifts?

Paul says that we should strive to use our gifts to build up or edify the church—our fellow Christians. He also points out that speaking languages that people don’t know is not edifying for them because they don’t know what you are saying. Paul concludes that he “would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue.“

Supplemental Second Lesson – Romans 10:13-17

Who will be saved from God’s judgment on the Last Day?

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved from God’s judgment on the Last Day.

Paul does not envision preachers suddenly feeling “called” into ministry in God’s church. How do they start preaching?

Paul says preachers cannot preach unless they are sent.

How does saving trust in Jesus first arise?

Saving trust in Jesus comes from the power of God’s Word to change hearts. Hearing that Jesus lived and died for us is the way faith arises.

Gospel – Luke 5:1-11

How did Jesus end up on Simon Peter’s boat?

Jesus was preaching to a crowd so large that he asked Simon Peter for the use of his boat so that the people could see and hear him better.

After Jesus finished preaching, what did he ask Peter to do, and what was Peter’s answer?

Jesus asked Peter to put down his nets for a catch of fish. While Peter suggested that they wouldn’t catch anything, he did it anyway because Jesus said so.

What happened when they let down the nets?

When they let down the nets, there was such a great catch of fish that the nets began to break.

When Peter saw the great catch of fish how did he react, and what did Jesus say to him?

In amazement and fear, Peter fell at Jesus’ feet and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” But Jesus had compassion on Peter and called him and his colleagues to be fishers of men.

Jesus is Our Long-Foretold Savior

These are the readings for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany.

God’s Word for This Week

Jesus “going public” should not have surprised his Jewish countrymen. They had known of the coming Messiah for a long time, dating back to the promise given Abraham (Genesis 12:3), even to Eden (Genesis 3:15). Yet, when Jesus finally arrived, “his own did not receive him” (John 1:10). He was not the kind of Savior that many were looking for. That too was foretold: “He was despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3).

Traditional First Lesson – Isaiah 61:1-6

Who is speaking in these verses?

Jesus is speaking through the prophet Isaiah.

What would the Savior come to do according to Isaiah?

Jesus would come to proclaim the good news of salvation, particularly to the spiritually downtrodden of this world. (See Matthew 9:13; Luke19:10.)

What promise does the Lord make to Christians in verse 6?

Jesus promises that we will have a part in his heavenly kingdom (priests and ministers) and that we will inherit eternal riches.

Supplemental First Lesson – Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10

In today’s gospel, Jesus opens the scroll of Isaiah and reads. In this lesson, from what books did Nehemiah read as he stood in Jerusalem and opened the scroll?

Nehemiah read from the Law of Moses, the first five books of the Bible. (We are not sure whether he read from all the books, some of the books, or perhaps just the book of Deuteronomy—the last book of Moses.)

How did the people respond to what Nehemiah read?

The people responded by lifting their hands and saying, “Amen. Amen.” Then they bowed low. “They worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.”

Why were the people not to weep, but to celebrate?

Nehemiah told them to celebrate, not weep, “for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

Traditional Second Lesson – 1 Corinthians 12:12-21, 26, 27

How does Paul illustrate the Christian church and our relationship as Christians to one another?

In a beautiful way, St. Paul compares the Christian church to our bodies. As our bodies are made up of many different but essential parts, so also the church is made up of many different but essential parts. We all work together to form the body of Christ.

What encouragement does Paul give to us as Christians?

Paul encourages us to work together in unity as a body. Just as our own bodies wouldn’t work well if the eyes, ears, or feet decided not to work anymore, so also the church is thrown into disarray when one of its member parts becomes divisive and schismatic.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Acts 4:23-31

When Peter and John were released from imprisonment, the believers in Jerusalem responded with prayer. Why did they begin by reminding God of all he had made?

The believers did not need to help God with his forgetfulness; he is not forgetful. By mentioning all God had made, they were praising him and reminding themselves that God is all-powerful, so he could handle their frightening situation.

Why did the believers turn next in their prayer to what God had said in Psalm 2, about a thousand years earlier?

When the believers quoted Psalm 2, they were praising God and reminding themselves that God always keeps his promises. He fulfills his Word. What he had done in the past, he would do again in the future.

Were Herod and Pilate helpless pawns on God’s chessboard?

No. Herod and Pilate were not helpless pawns on God’s chessboard, though they did what God had decided ahead of time. They conspired against Jesus. (The fact that God runs all things, yet people are responsible for their own evil deeds, will always mystify us.)

Gospel – Luke 4:14-21

What Scripture did Jesus read in Nazareth’s synagogue?

In his hometown’s synagogue, Jesus read the scroll of the prophet Isaiah, chapter 61.

What amazing words did Jesus use to conclude his reading?

After Jesus read from Isaiah 61, he explained: “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” In other words, Jesus was emphatically declaring that he was the fulfillment of the words of Isaiah, that he was our long-foretold Savior. The people who first heard Jesus make this claim were furious” (Mark 4:28-29).

Jesus is Our Unlikely, Yet Perfect Savior

These are the readings for the Baptism of Our Lord.

God’s Word for This Week

“Why did Jesus need to be baptized? I thought baptism was for sinners.” That’s a common question. It does not make sense that our sinless Savior would need to be baptized. Why was he? Because a) the Father wanted him to, and b) Jesus came to be our perfect substitute. His baptism shows him to be just that. Even from birth, he endured the effects of our sin. Jesus did no wrong, but he carried our sickness and pain (Isaiah 53:4). He needed the assurance of God’s love, just as if he were a sinner himself. He needed strength. Jesus received such gifts in baptism, like we do.

First Lesson – 1 Samuel 16:1-13

Whom had God rejected as the King of Israel?

God had rejected Saul.

When Samuel went to anoint a new king, did he and the Lord agree on who would be the “perfect” king?

They did not agree. Samuel was impressed with the oldest sons of Jesse because they were big and handsome. But the Lord had different ideas, as he explained: “The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

Whom did the Lord finally choose as Israel’s new king?

God chose the youngest son of Jesse—David—the forefather of our perfect Savior, Jesus. Jesus, too, would seem like an unlikely choice to be our perfect Savior (cf. Isaiah 53:2-3).

Second Lesson – Titus 3:4-7

According to St. Paul, why did God save us?

Paul plainly states that God did not save us because of righteous things we had done (our good works) but because of his mercy. In other words, our salvation depends entirely upon God’s love for us and not our love for him, a concept that seems unlikely to human reason.

According to St. Paul, how did God save us?

Paul explains that God saved us “through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” The Christian church has always understood this to be a reference to Holy Baptism, where God washes away our sin through this water connected to his Word of promise.

Gospel – Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

What was the purpose of the baptism given by John?

The purpose was the same as the baptism we have today: it was “a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (Mark 1:4).

If Jesus was sinless, why was he baptized?

In Jesus’ baptism, God commissioned him to “go public” and save us, and the Father anointed him with the Holy Spirit and power (Acts 10:38). Also, though Jesus did not have any personal sin, Jesus was not aloof. In his role as Savior, he carried the world’s guilt. He had come to be our perfect substitute and to identify with every sinner.

Which three special persons were present at the baptism of Jesus?

The Father spoke from above and sent the Spirit to the Son. Likewise, we were baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). We are all sons of God by faith in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:26).

Jesus Goes to the Temple Obediently

These are the readings for the First Sunday after Christmas.

God’s Word for This Week

The readings today give us a window into our salvation and eternal glory, via the boyhood years of Jesus. The early life of Samuel has some interesting parallels to that of Jesus. In Hebrews, Jesus willingly becomes one of us and calls us “brothers.” Look in wonder at Jesus, the almighty God, going through early learning years just as we all do.

First Lesson – 1 Samuel 2:18-20,26

What was the yearly present Samuel’s mother would give him?

Each year Samuel’s mother gave him a robe (linen ephod) she made herself. Compare her thoughtfulness to the care put into some Christmas presents. She was thrilled to see Samuel serve in the temple. The influence of a godly mother blessed Samuel.

How are his childhood years described (v.20)?

Samuel grew in height, and the Lord and people were very pleased with him—the result of training him up in the way he should go.

Second Lesson – Hebrews 2:10-18

What is Jesus not ashamed to call us?

Jesus is not ashamed to call us his brothers—part of the same eternal family. What a miracle of grace that God in the flesh could feel so close to us…and we to him!

Why did he have to become human like us?

In order to take up our battle against sin, death, and the devil, Jesus had to be like us. Jesus had to win, too. During his perfect human life all the way to the cross, even in boyhood, he lived as one of us. That way God could substitute his perfect human life and atoning death in place of ours.

What comfort do we get in everyday life from the fact that he faced the same things we do?

We have great comfort knowing that Jesus experienced what we go through. He faced daily struggles and temptations like ours. He can relate to our fears and challenges. He can help us, because the temptations he faced never took him down.

Gospel – Luke 2:41-52

What was Jesus’ priority and desire as a 12-year-old child?

Unlike many 12-year-old boys, Jesus eagerly wanted to learn and discuss Scriptural truths. The Jewish teachers were amazed at the depth of Jesus’ understanding. We are amazed to see Jesus making us saints in God’s sight as he obeyed Gods Third Commandment perfectly.

What phrase does Luke use that you already heard in the 1 Samuel 2?

Jesus grew “wiser and taller and won the approval of God and of people” (GWN). This is the only section in the Bible that gives us insight to Jesus’ growing years. What a thrill it must have been to be around Jesus; on the other hand, how meekly and quietly he walked before God and people.

Knowing Jesus Brings Wondrous Joy

These are the readings for the Third Sunday in Advent.

God’s Word for This Week

The coming of Christ into the world the first time created joy like none other. His reappearing will bring unimaginable joy to all who really know him and trust in him. The better we know God’s grace to us in forgiving all our sins and his concern for all our needs, the more we will seek to serve him and help others. Once again, we will rejoice.

Traditional First Lesson – Zephaniah 3:14-17

What is the emotion that he desires in “Zion”?

Daughters of Zion, Israel, and Daughters of Jerusalem signify God’s people. He prepares them for emotions of joy and gladness as well as a quiet peace inside. With fear and sadness removed, they get their hands eagerly focused on doing his work.

What is the motivation for such emotions?

The Lord has taken away the punishment for their rebellion and now protects them. How true that is for us in the person of Jesus who died for sins, now rules over all things, loves us, and rejoices in us as he leads us to joyfully serve him.

Supplemental First Lesson – Nehemiah 8:9-18

Why had many Jewish people in Jerusalem wept?

People had wept as they listened to the words of the Law which God had given Israel on Mount Sinai. The Law showed them how they had sinned against God. It also may have made them think of loved ones who had been killed when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem, fulfilling God’s ancient threats in the Law.

What reason did Nehemiah give people not to weep?

Nehemiah said, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

Second Lesson – Philippians 4:4-7

What two attitudes does Paul encourage in us here?

Paul tells us to rejoice and to live not for ourselves but let our gentleness (treating others kindly and fairly) be evident to all. Anxious? Paul says to pray (for others too).

How can someone feel joyful in the troubled world we see all around us?

The Lord is near! God’s peace will guard our minds in Christ Jesus.

Gospel – Luke 3:7-18

What did John the Baptist say comes with real repentance?

John told the crowd that they should produce “fruit” in keeping with repentance. If they were truly sorry for their sinfulness, the fruit of faith—a fitting response—would follow. Real repentance cannot lead to smugness, complacency, or habitual repetition of the same sin.

What are some examples of actions that fit real repentance?

Some actions which fit with real repentance, John says, include sharing with those in need, not abusing your position by cheating others, and being content with what you have.

What was the final goal of John’s preaching?

John’s goal in preaching was to lead people to grasp what sin is and how bad its results are, so they could be drawn to one much greater than he. That man was Jesus, the Christ, who was destined to die for them and who would send the Holy Spirit to create this type of life in them.

Be Prepared for Jesus’ Coming

These are the readings for the First Sunday in Advent.

God’s Word for This Week

“Advent” comes from the Latin word for “coming” or “arrival.” In today’s Bible readings, Jesus urges us to be ready for his coming. It could be at any time. It will bring far greater destruction than when the Lord leveled Sodom. What a difference that outlook makes in our prayers! How much we long to see our Lord and experience fully the freedom he bought for us with his blood.

Traditional First Lesson – Jeremiah 33:14-16

Who is the “righteous Branch” that will sprout from David’s line?

In Jeremiah 23:5-6, the righteous Branch is referring to Jesus and his saving presence on this earth. He is the King who has descended from King David’s line. It is possible here that this same title is being given to the Christian church that grows out of a connection to Jesus.

Who will be called “the LORD our righteousness”?

Although this sounds so similar to the Jeremiah 23 passage, here the Church (Judah and Jerusalem) will receive the same name as Jesus. We will not only be labeled with his perfect righteousness because it covers them but will also be the place other people can find his righteousness through the gospel proclamation. (Is this evident in our purpose?)

Supplemental First Lesson – Genesis 19:15-17, 23-29

How did Lot and his family feel about leaving Sodom? How can you tell?

Lot and his family hesitated to leave Sodom. Not only did the angels have to urge them to leave, they even had to grab the hands of everyone in the family to lead them safely out of the city.

In what ways does this story warn us about the end of the world?

This story warns us not to be so consumed with the things of this world that we can hardly bear to leave them. It warns us that God is dead serious about fiery judgment.

Traditional Second Lesson – 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

What does Paul ask the Lord to do within the Thessalonian congregation?

Paul has already mentioned how the gospel produced among the Thessalonian Christians great evidence of faith, hope, and love (1:3, 3:6). Now Paul prays for more: he not only asks for their inner life to become stronger but that it also will overflow its love on everyone who will come in touch with them. (Do people recognize this happening in you? Your congregation?)

What is Paul’s underlying concern as he prays?

Paul’s concern is that the Thessalonians’ faith is alive and well and that they will be ready to join the holy ones when Christ reappears. (Is this your priority?)

Traditional Gospel – Luke 21:25-36

What will it be like right as Jesus reappears at the end of time?

When Jesus reappears, it will terrify people. There will be disturbing signs in the sky, earth, and sea. These will cause many to faint from fear as the heavenly bodies are shaken. (Does the world expect this? Do you?)

How will God’s people react when Jesus returns visibly? (See especially 21:28.)

When God’s people see Jesus coming in his power and glory, they will stand secure, knowing this is the great time when Jesus completes his purpose for us and brings us into his eternal kingdom of freedom. (Is this exciting for you? Do you long for this?)

Because of this, what should our daily lives be like now? (See especially 21:34-36.)

Because Jesus could reappear any day, there is no room for us to be distracted with the anxieties or attractions of this world. We should always be focused and ready to stand before Jesus when he returns.

Jesus Calls Out to Us Through His Word

These are the readings for the Third Sunday of End Time—Saints Triumphant.

God’s Word for This Week

Like children playing hide and seek, Jesus calls out to us through his Word, “Ready or not here I come!” Thanks be to God that through Jesus’ saving work on the cross, we have been made ready! May his Spirit keep us in saving faith in him.

First Lesson – Daniel 12:1-3

A man dressed in linen, with a belt of finest gold around his waist (therefore, someone holy and royal (see 10:5) told Daniel about a book God has (12:1b). What did he mean?

By that book, the man dressed in linen (who may have been the Son of God himself), meant God’s list of his chosen children. God does not need a book to keep him from forgetting things. He wants to comfort us. What joy that God knows by name all whom he will save forever.

Describe the events of the Last Day. (See 12:2.)

On the Last Day, those who sleep in the dust will awake. That is, the dead will be raised. Some will receive eternal life and others eternal condemnation from God, the judge.

What is the key difference between those whom God will save and those he will condemn?

Those whom God saves are “those who are wise.” They have received true wisdom: trust in Jesus as Savior (not trust in themselves). That faith God credits to them as righteousness, so they are right in his sight. That faith shows itself in the way they lead others to trust in God and live for him.

Traditional Second Lesson – Hebrews 10:11-18

The book of Hebrews demonstrates how Jesus is superior to every aspect of the Jewish religion. How is Jesus’ sacrifice superior to the numerous sacrifices commanded in the Old Testament? (See 10:18.)

The Old Testament sacrifices were repeated “endlessly year after year” (10:1). They pointed to the seriousness of sin but didn’t actually take away sin (10:4,11). But Jesus, by one sacrifice of himself never to be repeated, has taken away the sins of the world. Confidence in the perfect forgiveness won by his sacrifice makes us ready for his return and gives us stamina for our daily struggles.

Supplemental Second Lesson – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Why does Paul call the death of believers to “fall asleep”?

Paul calls death for believers “falling asleep” for it is nothing to fear. Our bodies will rest. On the Last Day God will wake us up to his glorious, eternal dawn.

How can we be sure about what will happen? (See 4:15a.)

We can be sure about what will happen on the Last Day because we have the Lord Jesus’ own word on it. Paul, Jesus’ inspired apostle, has confirmed what Jesus said.

Will we float with Jesus in clouds forever? (See 4:17.)

Paul does not say that we will float with Jesus forever. He says that Jesus will snatch us up from the earth after the judgment. Jesus will destroy this world, then make a new heaven and new earth (2 Peter 3:10-13), so Jesus may snatch us up from this earth to keep us from being burned up with it, then put us back down on it. The main point is our relation to God, not our exact location with God.

Traditional Gospel – John 5:25-29

Describe the events of the Last Day according to verses 28 and 29?

All who are in their graves, i.e., the dead, will hear Jesus’ voice and come out. Then he will judge all people in righteousness.

Agree or disagree. Verse 29 tells us that we will be judged by our works and not our faith.

At first glance these verses, as well as other sections in Scripture (e.g., Matthew 25:31-46), teach that we are saved by what we do. To understand these verses, one must understand the relationship between faith and good works. Good works are the result and evidence of faith in Christ Jesus. No work can be good without faith. Faith in Jesus is what saves, but it can rightly be said that we are judged by our works. Our works are now holy and pure in God’s sight through faith in Jesus. Our works are the external evidence of our saving faith.

Supplemental Gospel – Mark 13:24-27

Right before Jesus reappears, should we expect things to be getting better and better or worse and worse?

We should expect things to get worse and worse. The sun will be darkened “following that distress.”

How will we all be able to appear before Jesus?

All believers will stand before Jesus, since his angels will gather God’s chosen children from all around the world.

We Give Thanks to God for His Grace, Faith, and Word

These are the readings for Reformation Sunday.

God’s Word for This Week

On Reformation Sunday we give thanks to God for his rescue from hell, rescue that comes by his grace alone. We thank him for the faith he gives us to trust his promise. We thank God for his errorless Word, the Bible, which gives and strengthens that faith. At the same time, we understand that we can fall away from that grace by unbelief. We recognize that Satan, society, and our sinful self—will daily challenge our faith. Therefore, let us never stray from God’s life-giving Word.

Traditional First Lesson – Jeremiah 18:1-11

To whom did God send the prophet Jeremiah?

God sent Jeremiah to watch a potter form his objects out of clay.

What was the point of God’s comparison?

Just as a potter controls what he forms with the clay, so the Lord would decide what he would do with the people of Judah. If they did evil, he would form their future accordingly with his righteous judgment. If they repented, he would form their future differently, making them into a vessel of his grace.

Supplemental First Lesson – Daniel 3:16-28

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were not sure God would save them from the fiery furnace. Still, what did they say to the king just before he threw them in? (See Daniel 3:18.)

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego said that even if their God did not rescue them from the flames, they would not serve Nebuchadnezzar’s gods or bow down to the image he had set up.

What three things did Nebuchadnezzar say that he concluded? (See Daniel 3:28-29.)

Nebuchadnezzar concluded a) that the God of the three men had sent his messenger/angel to save them, b) that the three had done the right thing, and c) that no other god could save in such a way.

What should we conclude from this story?

Among many things, we should conclude that God will bless those who fear him—those who put his Word and command above any other word and command.

Second Lesson – Revelation 14:6,7

The book of Revelation offers a number of symbols and pictures of how the world is and will be until the end of the world. What did the apostle John see in these verses?

John saw an angel who went out urging all people to honor and worship God, for the time of his judging had come.

What connection does this have with the Reformation?

In previous visions, John had seen that believers would suffer many trials and that the enemies of God and false teachers would attack them. Today’s two verses offer the comfort that even in the midst of persecution and false teachers, God’s Word will be proclaimed to the nations. Martin Luther was one messenger who did just that. The Greek word for angel means, “messenger.” May we, like Luther, be messengers of the truth in this wicked world.

Gospel – Mark 13:5-11

What kinds of things does Jesus warn us will continue to happen until the end of the world?

Jesus warns us that many people claiming to be Jesus or the Messiah will come. There will be wars and rumors of wars.

Why should we not be afraid of such things?

Why shouldn’t we fear? God promises to be with us and give us strength. He promises his Holy Spirit, who will help us defend our faith without fear. We have God’s promise of eternal life. We know that all trials are “birth pains,” that is, signs of the new and perfect life that is coming soon.

Jesus Warns Us to Guard Against Greed

These are the readings for the Twenty First Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

“I’m a little envious,” we claim. It is far worse. Envy is wishing God were not so good to someone else while ignoring how good God is to us. And our greed? “Greed is idolatry,” God says (Colossians 3:5). Still, God in Christ provides for all our needs, including the greatest—forgiveness of sin. He places proper priorities in the repentant believer’s heart. God even promises everlasting treasure in his holy presence, all by his grace.

Traditional First Lesson – Amos 5:6,7, 11-15

Amos addresses people who had lost their priorities. What does seeking the Lord involve?

Seeking the Lord involved giving up the worship of false gods in Bethel, Gilgal, and Beersheba. For us it means the same—to give up worshiping the false gods of our society. Those gods include sexual immorality, consumerism, selfishness, etc.

Amos states that we are to “hate evil.” When is hate appropriate?

There is a place among Christians for righteous anger. Following Christ Jesus means loving what God loves and hating what God hates. God gives us his Word to guide us in our thought life. When you think about it, hell is God’s righteous wrath that burns forever on those who reject his gospel of salvation.

Supplemental First Lesson – 2 Kings 5:14-27

How did Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, lie to Naaman? What did Gehazi request?

Gehazi lied to Naaman by asking him for clothes and money for two young men from the company of the prophets (perhaps seminary students, in our terms—future pastors). Naaman gave Gehazi about 150 pounds of silver and two sets of clothes—tens of thousands of dollars.

How much did Elisha know about what Gehazi had done? (See 2 Kings 5:26.)

Elisha not only knew about Gehazi’s deceit, he knew that Naaman had stepped down out of his chariot to speak with Gehazi. He knew that Gehazi had started thinking about the olive groves, vineyards, flocks, herds, and servants he would soon acquire. In other words, Elisha knew everything. Today, too, God knows everything about our greedy thoughts, words, and actions. We must never try to conceal them but confess them and find mercy in Christ.

Traditional Second Lesson – Hebrews 3:1-6

Compare Jesus to Moses. In what way is Jesus superior to Moses?

Moses was God’s servant and mediator of the Old Covenant. The Israelites got their identity and status from Moses. Christians get their identity and status from Jesus. Jesus is the mediator of the New Covenant. In every way Jesus is superior to Moses.

What determines if “we are in his house”? What is the “courage and the hope of which we boast”?

Though Moses was part of the house in which he served, Christ is the builder of the house. Though Moses was a servant in the house, Christ is the head of the house.

Supplemental Second Reading – Hebrews 13:1-6

As the writer to the Hebrews (Jewish Christians) wrapped up his letter with specific encouragements, which of them had to do with money?

Many of the writer’s encouragements had to do with money: a) being hospitable, b) keeping our lives free from the love of money, c) being content with what God has given us, and d) confidently trusting in the Lord instead of people.

In Deuteronomy 31:6, aged Moses told his successor, Joshua, something that the writer to the Hebrews says God promises all of us. What was Joshua to trust, according to Hebrews 13:5? And what are we to trust, as well?

God told Joshua, and God tells us, “Never will I leave you. Never will I forsake you.”

Gospel – Mark 10:17-27

What is Jesus trying to accomplish with the request he makes of the rich young ruler?

The rich young ruler thought he was good enough to get eternal life on his own, so Jesus served the rich young ruler a big helping of law–telling him to go and sell everything he had, give to the poor, then follow his Lord. Jesus wanted the man to see that his possessions had become his god. In doing so, Jesus wanted the young man to despair of being good enough for God on his own, and trust in him.

What does Jesus want the disciples to realize when he contrasts the camel with the eye of a needle?

Jewish people in Jesus’ day were familiar with the camel as the largest beast of burden they used. They were also aware of just how small the eye of a needle was. When Jesus compared the largest with the smallest, he quickly conveyed the idea that it was impossible by human means to save oneself from sin and enter God’s kingdom.

Jesus Calls Us to Abandon Worldly Ambition

These are the readings for the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Sinners sin. We all sin. But we cannot excuse our sin because we act like others. Sin requires radical surgery. Jesus says: “If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off” (Mark 9:43). The good news is that Jesus was “cut off” from his own Father through his death on the cross, in order to reunite us with God and with one another. As his servants we are the “salt” of the earth, standing out as we show allegiance to Jesus and the gospel.

First Lesson – Numbers 11:16, 24-29

When Moses, exasperated, turned to God because the Israelites were complaining about having to eat manna all the time, how did God first respond? (See 11:16.)

Moses receives mercy in the leadership department: Now 70 men will help him lead the nation. But the people get their wish for meat and a plague with it for grumbling against the Lord.

Why did a young man run and tell Moses about Eldad and Medad, who were still in the camp?

A young man ran and told Moses about Eldad and Medad because they were prophesying in the camp, instead of around the tent like the other elders. Joshua told Moses to have them stop.

Why didn’t Moses want Eldad and Medad to stop?

Moses didn’t want them to stop because he wished that all God’s people were prophets with the Spirit on them.

Traditional Second Lesson – James 4:7-12

What does James mean to “submit to God”?

It simply means arrange yourself under God’s authority. That will include the resolve to resist the devil, the world and our own sinful nature—all of which are God’s and Christians’ mortal enemies.

What promise is given to those disciples who humble themselves?

God promises to “lift up” those who humble themselves and submit to his will. Christian humility includes submitting to God, resisting the devil, coming near to God, forsaking sinful deeds and thoughts, and acknowledging one’s sinfulness.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Philippians 1:12-18a

What had happened to Paul, which surprisingly turned out to advance the gospel’s spread?

Paul was under house arrest in Rome for a long time.

How did Paul react when others preached Christ out of envy and rivalry?

Paul said, “The important thing is that in every way Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.”

Gospel – Mark 9:38-50

What prompted John to tattle to Jesus about a miracle worker that was not one of the Twelve?

Perhaps John was jealous. John said the disciples stopped the man because he “was not one of us.” Do we look down on one other Christians who are not part of our church body? Jesus said, “Do not stop him … whoever is not against us is for us.” Likewise, we confess in the Nicene Creed that we believe in one, holy Christian apostolic church.

Summarize the obligations of disciples for one another according to Mark 9:42-50.

A disciple will do everything possible to save the life of the soul. Participation in Christ’s kingdom is worth any sacrifice. The hand will not grasp what God forbids. The foot will not go where God’s “No Trespassing” sign stands. The eye will not gaze on that which God hates. Keep your “saltiness” by living for the gospel and Christ Jesus.

Preaching the Truth Always Makes Enemies

These are the readings for the Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

There are two kinds of preachers. One pushes worldly glory. The other pushes the ugly cross where Christ was crucified for us, alone in the darkness. The former touts worldly success. The latter knows that those who speak God’s truth will always make enemies. “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” the Bible says. So men who preach God’s full truth are bound to experience failure and disappointment. Following our suffering Savior, though, Christians even sing, “Go, then earthly fame and treasure. Come disaster, scorn and pain.” We even pray to God, “In your service, pain is pleasure. In your favor, loss is gain.”

Traditional First Lesson – Isaiah 50:4-10

Who is the special servant?

The prophesy is of Jesus. He would proclaim God’s Word (instructed tongue). He willingly submitted to the Word of God. He knew what the Lord wanted, and he obeyed (morning by morning). He is the great High Priest, who would offer up himself as a sacrifice for sin. (See Hebrews 7:26-28; 9:6-12.)

Who are those who fear the Lord?

The believers are the ones who possess deep respect and awe for the Lord. They give ear to the words of the Suffering Servant. All who fear the Lord and trust in the Word of the Lord’s Servant will find deliverance, forgiveness, and life.

Supplemental First Lesson – Jeremiah 38:1-13

What bad thing happened to Jeremiah? (See especially 38:6.)

Jeremiah was lowered into a cistern, in which he sank down into the mud.

Why did King Zedekiah allow this to happen?

King Zedekiah let Jeremiah be lowered into the cistern because four officials had told him that Jeremiah was discouraging people in Jerusalem. Jeremiah was telling them that those who stayed in the city during the Babylonian siege would die in terrible ways.

Traditional Second Lesson – James 2:1-5,8-10,14-18

How are we to treat our neighbor?

Here the Lord forbids favoritism and urges us to love everyone. God uses the trials of the poor and needy to test the faith of those who love him. “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Why does James say, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”?

Real faith inevitably yields good works. And if the works are absent, the faith claimed must be phony (Ephesians 2:10). As we come to faith in our Savior, we are justified, we are born again, we begin to understand God’s will for us, and the Spirit helps us to want God’s will and gives us the power to do God’s will. So if it is all talk and no action, faith is dead.

Supplemental Second Lesson – 1 Peter 4:12-19

In one word, how does Peter say you should think of yourself if others insult you because of the name of Jesus? (See 4:14.)

If others insult you because of the name of Jesus, you are blessed.

What does Peter mean in 4:17, when he says that it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God, so even worse things are coming for the godless?

In short, Peter means judgment day will be hopeless for unbelievers. Paul Kretzmann answers our question by first quoting Augustine’s analogy: “‘If the sons are being chastised, what will happen to the slaves?’ What will be the fate of the unrighteous, if God does not even spare the righteous, his intention being to instruct and train them? The believers are hardly, but certainly saved; those, however, that have refused to be obedient to the Gospel, that were unbelievers from choice, will miss the salvation of Christ, will go away into everlasting destruction …. That is what the apostle calls out in impressive warning: If the righteous is hardly saved, where will the godless and the sinner appear?”

Gospel – Mark 8:27-35

Why was Peter rebuked for not wanting Jesus to suffer and die?

Jesus rebuked Peter, we could say, for not understanding what the name “Christ” really meant. Peter and the other disciples were looking for an earthly king. Jesus rejected Peter’s well-meant but ill-conceived rebuke. Without Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection, we would still be in our sins and lost forever.

What is meant by taking up the cross?

Taking up one’s cross means denying oneself. It means to follow the One who carried his cross to Golgotha by refusing to make oneself the sole object in one’s life but making God and his will the center one’s life. That will always involve sacrifices, avoiding everything that might come between us and our Savior (Mark 7:20-23), even being ready to suffer shame and death to remain faithful to him.

Jesus Shows the Cause and Measure of Evil

These are the readings for the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

The psalmist wrote, “Oh, how I love your law!” (Psalm 119:97). The three scripture readings give us good reasons to love God’s law. That law shows us how to thank the God who redeemed us from sin, death, and the devil. It guides us in every situation. It identifies the beginning of evil—our own hearts.

Traditional First Lesson – Deuteronomy 4:1,2,6-8

Why did God command the Israelites not to “add or subtract” to what he commands?

The Israelites were God’s chosen people to whom he himself had given his decrees and laws. The commands were perfect in every respect. Adding or subtracting to what God had decreed was not only unthinkable but intolerable. Obedience to these commands showed their faithfulness to God and attracted the attention of the heathen.

How were God’s laws and decrees so much more righteous than the other nations’ laws?

God’s laws and decrees originated with the righteous and holy God. His moral law pointed to perfect love for God and fellow man. His ceremonial laws had meaning and purpose by pointing to the world’s only Savior. The civil laws demanded fair and just punishment for wrongdoers.

Supplemental First Lesson – Deuteronomy 4:1,2,6-9

Why did God command the Israelites not to “add or subtract” to what he commands?

At Mt. Sinai, God had given his chosen people promises and decrees that were perfect in every respect—even though many of the laws would only bind God’s people until the Messiah came. Adding or subtracting to perfection would dishonor God and his grace. Obeying these commands would show Israel’s faithfulness to God and attract the attention of their heathen neighbors.

How were God’s laws and decrees so much more righteous than the other nations’ laws?

God’s laws and decrees originated with the righteous and holy God and pointed people back to him, not to selfishness. a) God’s moral law demands perfect love for God and fellow man. b) His ceremonial laws pointed ahead to the world’s only Savior. c) Israel’s civil laws demanded fair punishment for wrongdoers. No other nations’ laws compared, and no other nation had received their laws when their God had come near them to rescue them from slavery and to adopt them as his people by a holy covenant.

Traditional Second Lesson – Ephesians 6:10-20

Whom does Paul identify as our real enemy?

Our real enemies are not the people or circumstances around us, but the rulers, the authorities, the powers of this dark world, the spiritual forces of evil who are the demons, the fallen angels headed by Satan, a fierce fighter.

Paul mentions only one offensive weapon. What is it? What is it used for?

The Roman soldier carried a sword. Our offensive weapon is the Word of God. God tells us that his Word is truth. The truths and promises found in the Word refute the devil and all his lies and attacks.

Supplemental Second Lesson – James 1:17-27

What tool that God uses to save and sanctify us does James keep highlighting here?

James highlights God’s Word, through which God gave us new birth—the word which God planted in us to save us.

Obeying God’s law cannot save us because we cannot obey it perfectly—just the opposite. Still, what does God’s perfect law give believers when we obey God out of thanks and love?

God’s perfect law gives freedom, James says. Instead of being slaves to our own pride, to all our dirty desires, and to people-pleasing, we are free.

Gospel – Mark 7:1-8,14,15,21-23

How did the Pharisees add to God’s law?

The Pharisees added to God’s law by elevating hand-washing to a religious ceremony that they claimed made them better before God than those who did not wash (literally, “baptize”) their hands.

Why did Jesus call them “hypocrites”?

Jesus called such men hypocrites (literally, “actors”) because they were always finding fault with other people but never with themselves and pretended to love and worship God when they really intended to make themselves appear holier than others.

The Pharisees were afraid of becoming unclean because of contact with Gentiles in the marketplace. How does a man become truly unclean, according to Jesus?

Jesus says sin and filth starts in the heart when we allow the devil, the world, and our own sinful nature to plant evil inside of us. We are dirty due to our sinful hearts. Then we become even more unclean when we embrace evil ideas and expose them to the rest of the world by what we say and do. (The Pharisees exemplified this when they plotted and worked to kill Jesus while claiming to be especially religious men.)

Jesus Gives the Bread of Life so That We Will Not Stumble

These are the readings for the Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Living as a Christian is hard. The devil places many obstacles in our way, all of which lead to sin and unbelief. But by his death in our place (by losing!), Jesus defeated Satan. The risen Christ gives us a way out of every temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13). Most of all, our Savior gives us the Bread of Life, his promises of forgiveness and eternal rescue. As we nourish our faith on this Bread of Life, Jesus will give us boldness to fight our spiritual enemies.

First Lesson – Proverbs 9:1-6

What character do we meet in these verses?

In Proverbs 9, we meet Wisdom. Miss Wisdom prepares a feast (hospitable). If we read on, we also meet Stupidity.

What are the characteristics of Miss Wisdom?

Miss Wisdom is so industrious she has built her own house at the highest point of the city. She is well-to-do enough that she has servant girls. She is so welcoming that she sends out her servant girls to invite all to come to her feast.

What invitation does she offer to all?

Wisdom invites us to come to her home and eat, to walk in the way of understanding, and to leave our foolish, worldly way of thinking. Such heavenly wisdom leads us on the right path so that we will not stumble in our faith.

Second Lesson – Ephesians 5:15-20

What encouragement does Paul give in verse 15?

Paul encourages us to be careful in how we live our lives as Christians, to be wise in the decisions we make, understanding the Lord’s will for us.

How are we to speak to one another as Christians?

We aren’t to use unwholesome talk. Instead, we should speak to one another spiritually, “with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs … giving thanks to God the Father for everything.”

Gospel – John 6:51-58

True or false: Jesus is talking about Holy Communion in these verses.

False. Jesus had not instituted Holy Communion when he spoke these words in John 6. Instead, when Jesus says that we must eat his flesh and drink his blood to have eternal life, he means trusting in him as our Savior who came to sacrifice his body and shed his blood to give us the forgiveness of sins and eternal life with God.

What is the main difference between the manna that God gave to his people after they got out of Egypt and the Bread of Life which Jesus gives us?

The sending of manna during Moses’ time came to an end; Jesus, the Bread of Life, lasts forever. He gives eternal life

Jesus Gives the Bread of Life to Nourish our Souls Eternally

These are the readings for the Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Many Christian churches stress social action. Feeding the hungry is important for Christians. God commands acts of mercy. Sadly, however, many churches offer little more than physical bread, bread that does not last. Bread is necessary for this life, but Jesus wants his Church to focus on offering the Bread of Life (Jesus himself, the Word of God). This Bread nourishes our souls, not just now, but for all eternity.

Traditional First Lesson – Exodus 16:2-15

In what predicament did Israel find itself?

They didn’t have much to eat.

How did the Lord provide for them?

The Lord provided manna (derived from the Hebrew for “What is it?”) from heaven on a daily basis. It was “white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey” (Exodus 16:31). On this particular day, the Lord also provided quail.

Supplemental First Lesson – Exodus 16:2-20

Why did all Israel grumble against Moses and Aaron?

Israel was in a difficult spot: They had very little to eat.

Whenever we grumble, against whom are we grumbling? (See Exodus 16:8.)

Whenever we grumble, we are grumbling against the Lord. Yet he has put us where we are. He promises to provide for all his children’s needs, and he has been so kind, so often. He forbids grumbling. So why do we grumble?

How did the Lord provide for his grumbling people?

From heaven the Lord daily provided manna. “It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey” (16:31). On this particular day, the Lord also provided quail.

Traditional Second Lesson – Ephesians 4:17-24

Upon what does Paul insist in these verses?

Paul insists that Christians not live like the “Gentiles” (i.e. the unbelieving world). These people have hardened their hearts to the truth of God’s Word and want nothing to do with the Bread of Life.

How are we kept from indulging “in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more”?

Through the power of the Holy Spirit working through the Word, we are led to put off our old self (the sinful flesh) and put on our new self (the Spirit-led Christian life). But the Spirit only works through the Word of Jesus, the Bread of Life.

Supplemental Second Lesson – 1 Corinthians 10:1-5, 11-13

How would you respond if someone says, “I know God severely punished people long ago, but things changed once Jesus died on the cross”? (See 10:11.)

If someone claims that Old Testament Bible stories about God punishing people do not apply to us, we should tell them that the New Testament says that all those stories are meant to warn us and to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things, as people long ago did.

Can a Christian lose his or her faith? (See 10:12.)

Sadly, yes, a Christian can lose his or her faith. We need this warning whenever we think we are standing firm on our own. When we feel unsure of our future and sorry for our sins, we need the comfort only the gospel gives.

Gospel – John 6:24-35

What kind of bread were the people interested in having from Jesus? What kind of bread did Jesus offer? How did the people misunderstand?

The people were interested in having physical bread. Jesus offered “food that endures to eternal life.” The people still thought that Jesus was offering physical bread that would last forever.

What did Jesus mean when he said: “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.”

Jesus is talking about faith in him as the Savior from sin. While Jesus also promises to provide for our daily, earthly needs, here he is focusing on the eternal needs of our souls. Through faith in Jesus, the Bread of Life, we can be assured that we will never go spiritually hungry or thirsty.

Jesus Gives the Bread of Life by His Faithful Word

These are the readings for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Last week we saw how Jesus gives the Bread of Life through faithful public ministers. This week we focus more on their message. Public ministers must faithfully proclaim God’s Word. When pastors do not preach the whole truth of God, they destroy faith and turn people away from Jesus, for “faith comes from hearing the message” (Romans 10:17). Nothing else will do.

Traditional First Lesson – Jeremiah 23:1-6

Who were these “shepherds” (prophets) who were destroying and scattering the Lord’s flock (his people)?

The shepherds to whom God refers are the false prophets in Judah during the days of Jeremiah.

Since others were not faithfully proclaiming his Word, what did the Lord plan to do?

The Lord would come himself, in the person of Jesus Christ, to shepherd his flock by his faithful Word.

Supplemental First Lesson – Numbers 27:12-23

Why did Moses ask that God appoint a man to replace him as leader of God’s people? (See Numbers 27:17.)

Moses asked God to appoint a replacement for him so that the Lord’s people would not be like sheep without a shepherd. (Isn’t Moses’ love for the Israelite people amazing, considering how often they complained about his leadership over the years?)

How did God describe Joshua, Moses’ replacement?

God described Joshua, Moses’ replacement, as a man who was in the spirit. This may mean a bold spirit of leadership or the Holy Spirit who gives such boldness.

Traditional Second Lesson – Ephesians 2:13-22

How did Jesus bring together the Jews and the Gentiles into one Christian Church? (See 2:15,16.)

Jesus brought these two groups together by fulfilling and abolishing the Old Testament law, which separated the Jews and Gentiles. Salvation and membership in the Church are not to be based on following certain rules and regulations, as so many still preach today. Instead, Jesus won forgiveness, salvation, and entry into eternal life for all people through his death on the cross and powerful Easter resurrection from the dead.

Upon what does Paul say this Christian Church is built?

The Church is founded upon the faithful word of the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament apostles. Jesus, who is himself the Word of God, is the chief cornerstone. (See John 1:1.)

Supplemental Second Lesson – Hebrews 13:7-8, 17-21

What is the one reason why believers should obey faithful pastors and submit to their authority? (See 13:20.)

Christians have good reason to obey faithful pastors and submit to their authority because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever: Jesus’ words do not change. The grace we receive from him does not change.

How does the writer to the Hebrews describe Jesus, now that the Father has raised him from the dead? (See 13:20.)

The writer to the Hebrews (we are not certain who he was) describes Jesus as “the great Shepherd of the sheep.”

Gospel – Mark 6:30-34

What did Jesus want his disciples to have? What stopped them?

After they returned from a preaching trip, Jesus wanted his disciples to have a vacation. They didn’t get it, for large crowds followed them when they tried to get away.

How did Jesus feel about the crowds that followed him? Why did he feel that way?

Mark says that he had compassion on them because, spiritually speaking, they were wandering aimlessly like lost sheep with no shepherd.

How did Jesus respond to the people’s needs?

He began to give them the Bread of Life by his faithful Word, teaching them the truths of God.