In Death, Believe Only

These are the readings for the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

What are we to think when a baby dies? Or a 12-year-old girl? Or we, at any age, see death looming? ‘Believe only,’ Jesus said. Is that ‘just believe’ as if believing is something easy or minor? No. He means no fear! Believe only. God calls us away from all trust in ourselves or anyone else to rely only in him and his promises in Christ, our Risen Savior.

Traditional First Lesson – Lamentations 3:22-33

When things were miserable around him, from what did the writer get his hope?

When we feel we have hit “rock bottom,” we too should be reminded that things could be far worse. God could have given us full punishment for our sins (yes, even the “small” ones). It is because of God’s great love that you are still alive! But look around you. His mercies show themselves faithfully every morning in the sunshine and the rain—in the little joys that come our way. Look for it every day. Since his compassion will never fail us, we should wait patiently for the timing of his blessings.

What good can God be accomplishing for us in sufferings?

There is strength given in the testing field of suffering. It begins as God strips away pride and self-righteousness and teaches us true humility and a greater dependence on him alone. (See Romans 5:1-6, Hebrews 12:7-11, 1 Peter 1:3-9.)

Supplemental First Lesson – 2 Samuel 12:11-25

Why is it significant that David and Bathsheba’s son died on his seventh day?

The boy would have been circumcised on the eighth day of his life, a week after his birth. (See Leviticus 12:3.) God said any uncircumcised male would be cut off from God’s people.

What is the last thing God records about what David said regarding his dead baby?

David said, ‘I will go to him, but he will not return to me.’

What hope does this seem to show?

David seems to have expected to be reunited with his baby after death. David’s sin had cost the child the child’s life, but David remains confident of God’s undeserved love.

Traditional Second Lesson – 2 Corinthians 8:1-9,13,14

What was so amazing about the “grace of giving” seen among the Macedonian churches?

The overflowing joy sprang up not from outstanding wealth but from severe trials and extreme poverty. In spite of the obvious needs they had, they were rich in generosity—even giving beyond their ability. What a testimony to God’s power in them.

Of what would the Corinthian’s giving be a “test”?

Paul wanted to test the sincerity of their love by their faithfulness in giving. It is so easy to say you love the Lord and love his people. The proof is in the doing. (Look at the actions of faith displayed in Matthew 25:34-40 or James 2:14-18.)

What was the motivation behind their giving?

The motivation for our sacrificial generosity centers in Christ, who gave up the riches of heaven to come to the poverty of this world in order to win for us the outstanding inheritance of heaven. Who would not want to “give themselves first to the Lord” when they truly understand that? (See 2 Corinthians 5:13-15.)

Supplemental Second Lesson – 2 Timothy 1:8-14

Timothy must not be ashamed of the gospel, though that gospel had gotten Paul imprisoned and soon would get him beheaded. What should Timothy do?

Timothy should join with Paul in suffering for the gospel. He should preach with sound words, just as Paul had. He should guard the truth of the gospel like a prison guard watches a prisoner, knowing his very life is at stake.

Jesus has not just defeated death. What else has he done? (See 2 Timothy 1:10.)

Jesus has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Gospel – Mark 5:21-24a, 35-43

How did Jairus show faith in Jesus?

Jairus came to Jesus knowing he could do what no one else could. He believed that Jesus could put his hands on his dying daughter, and she would be healed.

What words did Jesus speak in 5:36 that should stick with us? Why?

When Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid, just believe,’ he was speaking to a situation that looked impossible. The child was dead; anyone could see it. But nothing is impossible with God. Jesus lovingly restored the girl to life. Think of all the reasons we can have sure hope. Since Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter back to life:
• Jesus is God.
• Death does not faze Jesus.
• Even Jesus’ seeming delays are part of his good plan.
• Jesus is all-powerful; raises the dead effortlessly.
• Jesus promised to raise us from the dead to eternal life.
• Whenever Jesus promises us grace, we don’t have to do anything, for we merit nothing; he tells us ‘Believe only.’

God’s Word Makes Faith Sprout and Grow

These are the readings for the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

This 4th of July, people will celebrate the growth and power of our republic. Yet as believers in Christ, we are part of an eternal kingdom. The kingdom of God started so humbly. It makes unnoticeable progress as it conquers hearts for Christ. Yet if you step back to look at it, you can see its tremendous growth. Those who are part of it will be longing for the final outcome when they are “clothed” with immortal life away from the struggles of the world.

Traditional First Lesson – Ezekiel 17:22-24

What will the Lord do with the “top of the cedar tree”?

God uses the picture of breaking off the top of a cedar tree and planting it to vividly prophesy the miraculous success of his people. They would start off insignificant and small, but this kingdom of God would grow more powerful than any other nation because Jesus will be at its core.

What will the new tree attract?

This kingdom of God would have a worldwide influence. People with every kind of background from all over the world will find safety and shelter in its “branches.” (See the parable of the mustard seed—Matthew 13:31,32.)

Supplemental First Lesson – Jonah 3:1-10

Whom did the Ninevites believe when Jonah told them that their city would be destroyed?

When Jonah preached to them about God’s judgment, the Ninevites believed God. God convinced them, not Jonah.

What happened when God saw the Ninevites’ sorrow over their sin?

When God saw the Ninevites’ sorrow over their sin and how they turned from their wicked ways, he relented from his threat to destroy them. (He had not made an empty threat; God is like a father, who punishes children when he has to, but not because he gets pleasure from it.)

Traditional Second Lesson – 2 Corinthians 5:1-10

Why does Paul call this life (his body) “a tent”?

Our bodies on this earth are not our permanent dwelling but just temporary (like a tent). We groan with the pains and struggles of our bodies but know that God has given us more—eternal life! The more we understand what is coming up, the more we will long for it. How much is this a part of your daily perspective?

What difference will that make in our lives?

Because we confidently look ahead to the judgment, we make it our goal to please him and do all for the glory of God. Christian living is not a matter of rules and regulations but a joyful response to the gospel as we join in unfolding God’s effect on the world.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Colossians 1:3-8

What was the gospel doing all over the world in Paul’s day?

In Paul’s day, the gospel was growing and bearing fruit all over the world. In other words, more and more people were coming to faith in Christ and growing in faith, hope, and love.

Who came to Paul while he was under arrest (most likely in Rome) to tell him how the gospel was growing in little Colosse?

Epaphras told Paul how the gospel was growing in Colosse. Epaphras—a grateful “slave” of Christ, along with Paul—had started the congregation in Colosse. Later he went to see Paul who was under house arrest. What a report Epaphras could give about God’s grace, despite the doctrinal troubles in Colosse.

Gospel – Mark 4:26-34

How does Jesus help us understand the kingdom of God with the illustration of the growing seed?

The growth of God’s kingdom is God’s work, not ours. God almost invisibly provides progress within us, progress toward bearing fruit for the final harvest. The seemingly powerless seed of the gospel plants God’s ruling activity in resistant, stubborn people. Then faith sprouts. Can you look back and see the progress God has made in your faith life?

What else do we learn about the kingdom of God from the mustard seed?

In a big world, the kingdom of God seems small and insignificant, but it grows to be the largest kingdom of all. The parable of the mustard seed shows the extraordinary power of the word as it brings growth to the church, so people worldwide benefit (“perch in its shade”).

Keep the Proper Focus in Serving God

These are the readings for the Second Sunday after Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Sadly, in Jesus’, day religious Jewish men (Pharisees) managed to turn even God’s day of rest, Saturday, into a “working day.” Today too, made-up rules and distractions keep Christians from their proper focus. God’s main message to us sinners is not about us or rituals to which we must conform, it is about Christ himself. Relying on what Christ did in our place instead of our own good works empowers our service to God.

Traditional First Lesson – Deuteronomy 5:12-15

How were the Old Testament Israelites to treat the Sabbath Day?

They were to drop everything and rest. What a blessing to the workaholic Israelite and his family.

Why?

Here was a break from the busyness of life to focus on the providing and protecting power of God for good in their lives. How beneficial for us to also sit back undistracted from schedule and demands and be rejuvenated in our relationship to our God—keeping things in proper perspective. Jesus calls to all who are weary and heavily burdened so that he can give them rest (Matt 11:28,29). Our worship on specified days gives us an opportunity for that rest that we find in Jesus.

Supplemental First Lesson – 1 Samuel 21:1-6

What did Ahimelech the priest give David when he and his band of warriors were on the run?

Ahimelech made an exception to the normal way things would have worked. He gave David and his men five loaves of consecrated bread—bread that had been set aside for special use in worshipping the Lord.

Why, probably, did Ahimelech do this?

Ahimelech made an exception because without the bread David and his men might have starved to death. Emergencies may call for special measures.

Traditional Second Lesson – 2 Corinthians 4:5-12

What was the central focus of the disciples?

As far as they were concerned, they could become invisible from the attention of others as long as Christ would shine and affect the hearts of others like he had affected their hearts.

How did they view their personal physical welfare?

They were willing to undergo the gamut of sufferings in order to carry the treasure of the gospel to the world. It was that very good news of Jesus that kept them strong through hardships. They realized that their weaknesses displayed the power of Jesus. The “life” they saw at work in others made their efforts worthwhile.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Colossians 2:13-17

Since by his death in our place Jesus erased all the debts we owed God and disarmed all demonic powers and authorities, what should we not let anyone do?

We should not let anyone judge us by what we eat or drink or by when we worship. Saturdays are not better than Sundays. Sundays are not the day God commanded us to set aside for him. Old Testament ceremonial laws no longer bind us.

All of God’s Old Testament laws about Jewish worship, purity, and the like were only shadows of the things that were to come. Where is the reality found?

The reality is found in Christ. For instance—from Moses to Christ, Jewish people had to rest every Saturday. That was a shadow of the real rest for our souls Christ gives us.

Gospel – Mark 2:23-28

What activity of the disciples were the Pharisees condemning?

The Pharisees condemned Jesus’ disciples for grabbing grain and eating it on Saturday, the Sabbath (day of rest). With the picky rules those men had added to the Old Testament, they turned such harvesting-by-hand into a violation of God’s order to rest.

How did Jesus respond to the Pharisees?

Jesus responded with the story of David and Ahimelech, re-explaining what the Sabbath was all about and saying that he himself was Lord of the Sabbath (a shocking statement). With the illustration of David, Jesus showed that human need overrides religious ritualism. The Sabbath law was not made to enslave man but to give rest—physical and spiritual. Jesus’ forgiveness for sinners was the spiritual rest that the Old Testament Sabbath had foreshadowed.

God the Spirit Does the Impossible for Us

These are the readings for Pentecost.

God’s Word for This Week

Many problems seem unsolvable, but in Christ, our God is the God of the impossible. The day of Pentecost gave clear evidence of the power of the Spirit of Jesus to change things dramatically. Just as dead bones became living, breathing beings in Ezekiel’s vision, so people dead in sin become spiritually alive through the message the Holy Spirit has orchestrated and communicated through believers.

FIRST LESSON – Ezekiel 37:1-14

What was the condition of the bones, and what in your life do they represent?

The bones were very dry. There was no life at all in them. The people of God felt hopeless. There seemed no chance to be released from captivity to return to their homeland. Sin leaves us dry too (Ephesians 2:1-4). It makes us unable to do anything to return to God and the blessings he intended for us. It makes us feel trapped and hopeless.

What made these dead bones live? What does that mean for you?

The Holy Spirit does the impossible by bringing what was dead to life by God’s Word. He would restore Israel and bring it to its feet to return home. He also creates a new heart and renews a steadfast spirit within us (Psalm 51). What seems impossible becomes real. God promises!

SECOND LESSON – Acts 2:1-21

What was so amazing about these men boldly speaking in tongues?

The men speaking were common men—Galileans who would not have had schooling to speak so many other languages fluently. They were men who had hidden for fear of people connecting them with Christ. Now they were boldly telling that message of the crucified and risen Savior in languages that foreigners could clearly understand.

What was Peter’s explanation of this event?

Peter said the fire, wind, and tongues fulfilled God’s prophecy to send his Spirit in a special way. This outpouring began at Pentecost and continues wherever the gospel is preached. The purpose was to get the news out so that all could call on the name of the Lord and be saved.

GOSPEL – John 14:25-27

Whom was the Father going to send in connection with the name of Jesus?

The Father and Son would send God the Holy Spirit.

On what would the Holy Spirit focus when he came on Pentecost and afterward?

The truths Jesus was sharing with the disciples seemed so confusing at the time. They had so much to learn, so much that differed from what they had imagined. The Holy Spirit would come, Jesus said, to “teach you all things” and “remind you of everything I have said to you.” The Holy Spirit was not coming to draw attention to him but turn our eyes and hearts to Jesus. Like a spotlight operator, he focuses the gospel light on Jesus, so we can clearly see what he has done, understand what he has taught, and grow firm in faith.

Love One Another

These are the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter.

God’s Word for This Week

What one word summarizes all of God’s commands? Love. Luke tells us about a Christian lady full of love for the widows of her city. The apostle John teaches us that love for God and his Word compels us to carefully examine all teachings and churches in the light of Scripture. Jesus himself commands us to love one another as he has loved us.

TRADITIONAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 11:19-26

According to verse 21, what happened to the church despite persecution?

Because of the persecution of the Jews, many Christians were scattered, and the Word of God spread to other regions. In Antioch, many non-Jews heard the gospel and came to believe.

Believers were first called Christians at Antioch. What is the significance of being called Christians?

By bearing the name “Christians,” we give testimony to the fact that we believe that Jesus is the Christ, the promised Savior of the world. We bear the name proudly. We also recognize that the life we live reflects upon him whose name we bear.

SUPPLEMENTAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 9:36-42

Why were the widows of Joppa so upset when Dorcas died?

The widows of Joppa were so upset when Dorcas died because, out of her love, she had sewn clothes for them.

What loving, amazing words did Peter speak when he raised Dorcas from the dead?

Peter said, “Tabitha, get up.” (In Aramaic, this sounded very similar to the time Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead, saying, “Talitha [little girl], get up).”

SECOND LESSON – 1 John 4:1-11

Who/what are the “spirits” of which John speaks here?

The spirits about whom John speaks here are those who make spiritual claims.

What are we to do with such spirits?

We are to test such spirits, to see whether they are from God. That is, we are to test teachers and churches against the Bible. If they disagree with Scripture—if they deny that Jesus is the Christ—then they are not from God. Note that we are not to test other people’s hearts (we can’t), or count other followers, or try to gauge their pizzazz. Any of those would be unloving. Rather, we lovingly check out what a spirit, a person making spiritual claims—teaches.

Evaluate the following statement. “If we do not always show true love for others, that means that we are not true believers.”

If we believe in Jesus as our Savior, we will produce fruits of love. Sinners, however, are hardly perfect. The fact that we don’t always show love doesn’t mean that we aren’t believers; it means that our faith needs to grow. We will not use that need as an excuse to not show love, but rather as a reason to grow in our faith through the use of the gospel.

GOSPEL – John 15:9-17

The world often portrays true love as weak and God’s commands as burdensome. According to verse 11, why did Jesus command us to show love?

Jesus commands us to show love that we might have his joy and that our joy may be complete. God does not give us his commandments to make our lives boring or more difficult but rather because he knows that it is for our good. We are happier when we follow his commandments.

What is love?

Love is self-sacrifice in attitude and action. Love is the opposite of selfishness. Love does everything for the other person. Jesus gives us the ultimate example of love in verse 13: “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

The Risen Lord Is Our Shepherd

These are the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Easter.

God’s Word for This Week

Jesus is our Good Shepherd. We are his sheep. Our Good Shepherd loves us so much that he gave his life for us. He knows us all by name. He protects us from our enemies. He gives us courage and strength. He continually brings more sheep into his fold. He promises heaven to all who believe in him. How great is the love that God has lavished upon us!

TRADITIONAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 4:23-33

How did the believers in Jerusalem respond when the Sanhedrin ordered Peter and John to no longer preach in Jesus’ name? (See 4:24.)

They responded by turning to God in prayer. What a great example for us today! When we are faced with difficulties, trials, and setbacks in the Church, let’s always take it to the Lord in prayer.

What did they ask for in verses 29 and 30? How did God respond?

They asked for boldness to preach, along with the special gift of healing and miracles. Luke tells us that they received a special measure of the Holy Spirit and preached boldly. We see in other sections of Acts that some were given the gift of healing and miracles.

Evaluate the following statement: As Christians, we should ask for such things today.

God encourages us to ask him for whatever we desire in our hearts, and he promises to give us whatever is for our good. Therefore, it is good and right that we pray for boldness to preach. Through the power of his gospel, God answers our prayers and gives us strength and courage. Today God does not give all the same gifts that he gave to the early church. Gifts such as healings, tongues, and prophecy were given at that time according to their needs. God could still give such gifts today, but we should never expect them or doubt God if he decides not to give them to us.

SUPPLEMENTAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 20:28-32

How did God acquire the church? (See 20:28.)

God acquired the church by buying her with his own blood.

Who are the “savage wolves” whom Paul mentions? (See 20:29.)

The “wolves” to whom Paul refers to are false teachers, men who distort God’s truth and seek to gain followers. They lure away former believers by those distortions.

What is our true hope and strength against such difficult enemies? (See 20:32.)

Our hope and strength against such enemies is God’s Word itself, the same Word that the false teachers distort. God’s Word builds up believers in faith, and it gives us a place among those who are being set apart to lead holy lives for God.

TRADITIONAL SECOND LESSON – 1 John 3:1,2

What have we become because of God’s love?

Though we were rebellious sinners and slaves to sin, God, in his love, has adopted us as his dear children. Through the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, we are now heirs of heaven. We are sons and daughters of the King. Through God’s great love, we have become the greatest rags to riches story ever told!

What does John mean when he says, “what we will be has not yet been made known”?

Though we are sons and daughters of the King, in this world, many times what we are is not so obvious. As believers, we may suffer sickness, poverty, and disaster. Only when we get to heaven will the glory that is ours be fully revealed.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECOND LESSON – 1 Peter 5:1-4

Instead of calling himself an apostle, or even “the leading apostle,” what did Peter call himself?

Peter called himself a “fellow elder” and a “witness to Christ’s sufferings.”

Why does Peter say that Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, will “appear,” not “arrive” or the like?

Peter says Jesus will “appear” because, though we cannot see him, Jesus has not left us. He is right here with us in his Word and sacraments. On the Last Day, we will finally see him when he makes himself visible.

What will you receive when the Chief Shepherd appears?

When the Chief Shepherd appears, we will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

GOSPEL – John 10:11-18

What, above all, proves that Jesus is our Good Shepherd? (See 10:11.)

Jesus proved that he is our Good Shepherd by willingly giving up his life for us his sheep.

What else does Jesus do for us?

Jesus also protects his sheep. He knows and loves each of his sheep personally. His sheep know and love him. He regularly brings new sheep into his flock, too.

Faith Is Being Certain of What We Do Not See

These are the readings for the Second Sunday of Easter.

God’s Word for This Week

Our faith is based on the firmest possible ground: Jesus, our risen Lord. We cannot see him. We cannot touch him. We have not yet experienced the joy that will be ours forever. We come to know and trust in him as our Savior only through the precious gospel that is revealed to us in the words of Scripture.

TRADITIONAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 3:12-20

Peter here is responding to the crowds after healing a crippled beggar in the temple. According to verse 16, why was the man healed?

The man was healed “by faith in the name of Jesus.” Through faith in Peter’s words and Jesus’ promises, the crippled beggar received salvation and the added blessing of healing.

What does Peter encourage the people to do in verse 19?

Peter is speaking to the Jews who had only a short time before allowed and even asked for the crucifixion of Jesus. Peter tells them that forgiveness is found in Jesus Christ alone. He encourages them to repent of their sins and turn to Jesus their Savior.

SUPPLEMENTAL FIRST LESSON – Acts 26:19-29

Before which two rulers was Paul testifying?

Paul was testifying before Agrippa and Festus.

In what two ways did Paul describe his teaching about the resurrection, after Festus told Paul that he was insane?

Paul said his teaching was “true and reasonable.”

Isn’t the resurrection of all believers unreasonable? Explain.

The resurrection of all believers on the Last Day might seem unreasonable (how can a dead person come back alive, bodily?). Still, if a) God is all-powerful, if b) Jesus rose from the dead, and if c) Jesus promises to raise us too, we would be “insane” not to believe in our bodily resurrection.

TRADITIONAL SECOND LESSON – 1 John 5:1-6

According to verses 2 and 3, now that we believe in Jesus as our Savior, what does that faith lead us to do?

Faith leads us to love God and obey his commandments.

What does Paul mean in verse 6 when he says that Jesus came by water and blood?

Water is a reference to Jesus’ baptism, and blood is a reference to his sacrificial death on the cross. John wrote this letter as a reaction to those who were teaching that Jesus was not true God, but only true man. They were teaching that God somehow descended upon Jesus after his baptism and left him before he died. John tells us that Jesus is God’s eternal Son made man. As true God and true man, Jesus lived, suffered, and died for our sins.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECOND LESSON – 1 Corinthians 15:12-22

What were some people in Corinth falsely claiming?

Some in Corinth were falsely claiming that there was no resurrection and there will be none on the Last Day either.

Why was that claim disastrous?

That claim was disastrous because if there is no resurrection, then Christ was not raised from the dead either. And if Christ has not been raised from the dead, a) the apostles’ preaching about Christ was useless, and b) so is our trust in Christ.

GOSPEL – John 20:19-31

Why are Jesus’ words in verse 29 so important for us as Christians today?

Jesus’ words are so important for us because, unlike those first disciples, we did not have the opportunity to see Jesus in the flesh and witness his saving work. Even though we have not seen him, we have God’s promise that we will receive the same blessing of eternal life through trusting in him.

Why did John write the words of his gospel?

John did not record every last detail of Jesus’ life in his gospel. He wrote what he wrote so that we might believe that Jesus is the Son of God and Savior of the world. Through faith in Jesus we, as those first disciples, will receive God’s eternal blessings in glory.

Jesus Humbly Rides Into Jerusalem to Die

These are the readings for Palm Sunday.

God’s Word for This Week

Our Lord is so different from earthly rulers. On the first Palm Sunday, Jesus was coming to finish history’s most crucial battle, yet he did not enter Jerusalem as a mighty warrior. He had no army. Jesus came on a lowly donkey, with twelve average men following him. Crowds greeted him with words from Psalm 118; words that rang to the heavens then, words still lifted to Jesus today: Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

FIRST LESSON – Zechariah 9:9-10

Zechariah writes 520 years before Christ. What is he prophesying about in verse 9?

Jesus coming as a lowly king into Jerusalem. We now know this as Palm Sunday.

Look at 9:10. What amazing gift would this King riding on a donkey bring?

Salvation—eternal life—for all people.

How does Zechariah give us a picture of the salvation our King would bring in verse 10?

What a picture: There would be no more instruments of war. In Zechariah’s day, the instruments of war were chariots, warhorses, and bows. Today we would say that there would be no more guns, missiles, tanks, bombers, or fighters. Instead, there would be peace throughout the earth and the King (Jesus) would rule over all. This picture finds its fulfillment in heaven, and on the new earth, where sin and war will rage no more for God’s people.

SECOND LESSON – Philippians 2:1-10

As followers of Jesus, what kind of attitude are we to have?

We are to have the same attitude as Christ Jesus, who humbled himself in service to his Father and others.

Why is it such a surprising thing that Jesus humbled himself all the way to the most cursed death, that of a cross?

If we had been in a position of authority over all things, we wouldn’t want to give it up to serve others, let alone die under God’s curse on the cross. Jesus left the glory of heaven to live in a world filled with sin, violence, and death. What great love for sinners!

Because Jesus was willing to endure so much for us, what glory did God the Father give him?

The Father gave the Son back the full use of the position the Son had always had from eternity: equality with the Father in every way. Now when we worship Jesus as Lord, God the Father receives the glory he deserves. Let us do this now and forever!

GOSPEL – Mark 11:1-10

If Jesus knows details about the colt, etc., ahead of time, what else must he know in advance?

If Jesus knew about the colt, etc., Jesus must have known all that would happen in his betrayal, suffering, and crucifixion. What love for us and for the Father he had!

What does the word hosanna mean?

Hosanna literally meant, “Please, save.” It was a plea for deliverance. Because we generally only call for rescue to people great enough to help, over the centuries hosanna became a shout of exclamation or praise to someone great.

Jesus Must Be Lifted Up On the Cross

These are the readings for the Fourth Sunday in Lent.

God’s Word for This Week

A drowning man will not complain about the size of the boat that comes to rescue him. Yet today’s first lesson shows us people complaining not long after God had freed them from slavery in Egypt. Note in each lesson how God shows his heart of grace―undeserved love that rescues sinners.

FIRST LESSON – Numbers 21:4-9

Which flaws of human nature led to the painful, in some cases deadly, lesson of venomous snakes?

The snakes came when people got impatient, complained, and were not thankful. They even criticized free daily food. It started with a lack of trust and love for God. (“You brought us… to die in the desert.”)

God could have saved the people without having them look at something. What did he want to teach them (and us) by having them look at the snake on a pole?

By putting the snake on the pole, God said: “trust me.” God found a way to heal their soul and body at the same time. Their main problem was spiritual—lack of trust—and God taught them to trust his promise. Sure enough, anyone was bitten who looked at the bronze snake lived.

Today we don’t look at a snake on a pole to save us. Where does God direct us to look?

God has us look at his Son in baptism’s waters and his body and blood, united with bread and wine in his supper.

SECOND LESSON – Ephesians 2:4-10

Find five different words or phrases in this precious section that highlights God’s goodness.

Five key phrases which emphasize God’s goodness: his great love for us, who is rich in mercy, riches of his grace, his kindness to us, it is the gift of God.

Find four different words or phrases Paul uses to emphasize that no part of the rescue is our doing.

Four key phrases, emphasizing that we cannot save ourselves at all: “We were dead in transgressions,” “not from yourselves,” “not by works,” and “no one can boast.”

If our good works have no part in paying for our eternal life, why do we still do good works? (See 2:10.)

Good works result when people realize the great gift God has given them. A living fruit tree will naturally bear fruit; so also, a person who realizes he has received eternal life at the cost of God’s own precious blood will then respond to that love with love for God and others. The reason God created us was to produce fruits of faith and love.

GOSPEL – John 3:14-21

How is Jesus like the bronze snake of today’s first lesson?

Both the snake and Jesus were lifted up. Both were lifted up so many could look, see the solution promised by God, and be saved. Both required no payment or effort. Instead, both called dying people to look with trust to the only savior for their problem.

What is the criterion for God’s judgment? When does this judgment take place?

Whoever believes in Jesus shall not perish. God’s criterion is that you trust in Jesus. This judgment is already valid, not just a future “will be so,” but already “is condemned.” Believers already cross over from death to life. (See John 5:24.)

Jesus Calls Us To Follow Him

These are the readings for the Second Sunday in Lent.

God’s Word for This Week

To follow Jesus, we must carry our cross. This means our faith will bring us severe burdens and shame. But through Jesus’ cross, we have such good news: Heaven is open! We can rejoice in our sufferings! By losing our lives for Jesus, we will find them!

FIRST LESSON – Genesis 28:10-17

Whom did Jacob see on the stairway? Above it?

God’s holy angels were going up and down the stairway. The Lord God himself was at the top of the stairway.

What promises did Jacob receive, which include you?

Promises: a) God is the God of all believers, both dead (Abraham) and alive (Isaac and Jacob). Even dead believers are alive with God! b) With all people on earth, we are blessed in Jesus with a holy Savior. c) God will keep all his promises to us, for Jesus’ sake.

SECOND LESSON – Romans 5:1-11

What amazing gifts do we receive by trusting that Jesus died for our sins? (See 5:1,2.)

By trusting that Jesus died for our sins, we stand innocent before God in his court. We have peace toward God. We have entrance into God’s grace. We rejoice because we are sure that we will share glory with God forever.

Why do we rejoice in our sufferings? Isn’t that a bizarre way to act? (See 5:3.)

It might surprise the rest of the world but rejoicing in our sufferings fits with faith in God’s promises. We know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces proven character, and proven character produces confident hope of eternal life.

In Christ, what three things are no longer true about us? (See 5:6,8,10.)

We were powerless; we were sinners; we were God’s enemies. Relying on Jesus’ blood, we are none of those things anymore in God’s sight. We have God’s strength. We are holy in God’s sight. We are God’s friends.

GOSPEL – Mark 8:31-38

Why did Jesus have to suffer and die? (See 8:31.)

Jesus had to die because he had said so. God the Father told him so. God the Spirit said so in the Old Testament in many places. There was no other way we could have eternal life. “For the joy set before him” Jesus endured the cross and scorned its shame (Hebrews 12:2). His joy was seeing us sinners receive the gift of eternal life.

When Jesus told Peter, “Get behind me, Satan!” he didn’t mean Satan had taken total control of him and made Peter helpless. What did Jesus mean?

Jesus meant that for Peter to try to keep Jesus from dying for us was satanic. If Jesus hadn’t died for us, we would all have spent eternity with the devil in hell.

Why is trying to become rich apart from God such a poor choice?

Even if we gain the whole world, it won’t do us any good if we lose our souls and end up in eternal fire, body and soul.

Jesus Reveals His Future Glory

These are the readings for Transfiguration Sunday.

God’s Word for This Week

Scripture only records one time when Jesus showed his divine glory. That was on a hilltop in northern Israel. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Peter, James, and John got a firsthand (and terrifying) look at Jesus’ perfect glory. Why did Jesus do this? He did it, among many reasons, to give his disciples a glimpse at what the future holds for all believers. They were about to enter a difficult time as disciples. They would see their Messiah crucified. But future glory would follow, by God’s grace.

FIRST LESSON – 2 Kings 2:1-12a

Why was Elisha upset?

He realized that his master, Elijah, was going to be taken away from him.

What request did Elisha have for Elijah?

Elisha asked Elijah for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit. He knew he would need spiritual strength when Elijah was gone. In those days the oldest Jewish son would inherit a double portion of the estate, so Elisha seems to be asking to be Elijah’s heir/successor.

How was Elijah taken away into heaven?

A chariot and horses of fire separated Elijah and Elisha, then Elijah was taken to heaven in a whirlwind.

SECOND LESSON – 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2

To which Old Testament event does Paul refer in this lesson?

When Moses returned from Mt. Sinai, his face shone because he had seen a portion of the Lord’s glory. Moses put a veil over his face because the people couldn’t stand to look at him. Paul says that the stubborn Jews who rejected Jesus as Savior still have a veil over their hearts.

True or false: The old covenant (the law) is more glorious than the new covenant (the gospel).

False. The law brings sin, guilt, and death to sinful people. It is glorious because the law is truth and shows us that God is holy and perfect. But Paul says that the gospel is more glorious because it brings freedom from sin, life, and salvation (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:10,17,18).

As ministers of the glorious gospel, how do we proceed in our mission?

We don’t need to use trickery or sleight of hand. We don’t need to distort the word of God. Instead, we set forth the truth plainly and trust that God works life and salvation through the simple gospel. There’s no need to manipulate the truth to make it more acceptable; glory comes only through the truth of the gospel.

SUPPLEMENTAL SECOND LESSON – 2 Corinthians 4:3-6

Why don’t all people trust in Jesus’ blood?

All people do not trust in Jesus’ blood because the devil, “the god of this age,” has blinded the minds of unbelievers. Result: They cannot see the light of the good news.

In short, who is Jesus, this man who appears in such glory on the Mount of Transfiguration?

Jesus is the image of God. When we see Jesus, we see exactly what God the Father is like.

If you trust in Jesus―unlike many―why is that? (See 4:6.)

The God who did the miracle of making light at the beginning, just by saying, “Let there be light,” did a similar miracle in you. He made light where there was only darkness. He gave you light to know the glory of God in the face of Christ.

GOSPEL – Mark 9:2-9

Who met Jesus and his disciples when they climbed this high mountain?

Jesus and his three disciples met Moses and Elijah, who were generally considered by the Jews to be the two greatest prophets in the Old Testament.

Why did Peter make the suggestion he did in verse 5?

Peter wanted to build shelters on the mountain for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah in order to keep the glory of God all to themselves. Mark the evangelist suggests that Peter was speaking foolishly. Jesus needed to head for Jerusalem, where he would suffer death on a cross to secure eternal glory for his followers. (See 9:9.)

Jesus is Revealed by Setting Captives Free

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

God’s Word for This Week

We call Jesus our Redeemer. The word “redeem” means to buy back from capture and captivity, to pay a ransom. As sinful human beings, we were captive to the law of God because of our sin and the consequences of sin, principally death. But Jesus has set us free from the law, its threats, and its curses, by keeping God’s law for us perfectly. As Christians, we are no longer “under law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14). But we are not to abuse our Christian freedom. Instead, Jesus has set us free so we will become slaves to righteousness, serving others in love, always thanking our Redeemer.

First Lesson – Deuteronomy 18:15-20

What request did the people of Israel have for the Lord when they had previously assembled at Mt. Horeb (Sinai)?

The Israelites asked that the Lord no longer speak to them with his own voice—in all his majesty. They feared they would die. We sinners cannot deal with holy God in his full glory, as the Lord had told Moses: “You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live” (Exodus 33:20).

Whom was the Lord going to send?

The Lord was going to send a prophet from among the people of Israel who would speak on God’s behalf. He meant his own Son, our Savior Jesus.

Which is worse, for a preacher to speak a little that God has not commanded, or to speak in the name of other gods?

Preaching a little false doctrine is just as bad as advocating idolatry. God insists on passing along his Word of Truth 100 percent. Only the truth can combat the father of lies. (See today’s Gospel, Mark 1:21-28.)

Second Lesson – 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

What Corinthian problem does Paul address in this chapter?

Paul addresses the important issue of adiaphora (things neither commanded nor forbidden by God). For instance, in the New Testament era, Christians are given the freedom to eat all things, but some Jewish Christians were still having difficulty understanding that they were free from Old Testament ceremonial laws about meat sacrificed to idols.

Whom does Paul address in this chapter?

Paul addresses those who understand that they are free from the ceremonial laws (the strong Christians).

What command does he give them?

Even though they are free as Christians, Paul encourages the strong Christians to surrender their freedom out of loving concern for their fellow Christians (the weak), so that the weak Christians might not sin against their consciences.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Hebrews 3:1-6

Who was greater, Moses or Jesus? Why?

Jesus was greater than Moses. Moses was a faithful servant over God’s house, but Jesus is God’s Son who is over God’s house. Jesus was faithful even when God told him to die on the cross for us with the world’s guilt on him.

Who or what is God’s house on this earth?

We are God’s house, as long as we hold onto our courage and don’t fall away from Christ when others try to influence us. God’s Spirit lives in all Christians together and individually. We have become God’s holy house by faith.

What will happen if we don’t fix our thoughts on Jesus and don’t hold onto the eternal hope Jesus gives?

If we do not, God will not live in us anymore. We will not live with God forever. We will die apart from him, with the devil.

Gospel – Mark 1:21-28

What struck people, when Jesus taught?

Jesus amazed people because he taught others based on his own authority (verses 22, 27), while the Jewish teachers of the law often based their teachings on quotes from famous rabbis.

How did Jesus demonstrate his authority?

Jesus shows his authority by casting out an evil spirit. (Note how the demon tried to scare/ deceive people by screaming out the truth.) Jesus is God. He has the power, ability, and willingness to set us free from the devil and all harm.

Jesus is Revealed by His Gospel Call

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

God’s Word for This Week

How is Jesus revealed to the sinful people of this world? Not by threats. God is serious about his “Do’s” and “Don’ts,” but he does not force people to be Christians. Instead, Jesus is revealed to blind sinners by the call of the gospel, God’s word of forgiveness. The Holy Spirit shows us our sin, then calls out “Jesus died for you” in God’s Word and sacraments. He changes unbelievers into believers who want to live for God.

First Lesson – 1 Samuel 3:1-10

Who did Samuel think was calling him?

Samuel thought Eli was calling him.

Who was really calling Samuel?

The Lord was calling Samuel.

What model attitude does Samuel display for Christians?

Samuel displays a humble willingness to hear the Word of the Lord. Today, too—only through the gospel does the Holy Spirit awaken and strengthen faith.

Second Lesson – 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

True or false: Christ has freed us from the law.

True. The law is no longer the determining factor for our conduct as Christians. Christians are motivated by the gospel to love God and love one another.

How were some Corinthians abusing their freedom from the law?

Some Corinthians were abusing their Christian freedom to justify sins of the flesh, including sexual immorality.

Why do Christians honor God with their bodies?

Christians do not belong to themselves; Christ has bought us by shedding his blood, rising again, and calling us to faith in him. We no longer live to please ourselves, but him. Our motivation for living Christian lives comes from the gospel, not the law.

Supplemental Second Lesson – 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17

Paul has just warned us about believing the lie that our good works can save us from hell. Now he changes topics. Who gets the credit for saving us?

God gets the credit. God gets all the credit. From the beginning, he chose us to be saved through trusting in Jesus as our Savior. We didn’t decide to become believers. We could not have.

Why did God call us to believe in the truth?

God called us to believe in the truth so that we would share forever in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

True or false? As long as we trust that Jesus died for us, it doesn’t matter if we believe a few lies.

False: Paul urged the Thessalonians to stand firm and hold onto the teachings he had given them face to face and had written to them. We must hold onto all the teachings of the Word of God. We must hold onto what we have learned from the Bible via trustworthy parents, pastors, and teachers. The result? We will get eternal encouragement, good hope, and strength to serve God and our neighbor in whatever callings God has placed us.

Gospel – John 1:43-51

What did Philip do when Jesus commanded: “Follow me?”

Not only did Philip follow Jesus, but he went and told his friend Nathanael also.

How did Nathanael react to Philip’s news?

Nathanael could not believe that the Savior would come from such an insignificant place as Nazareth.

When Nathanael met Jesus, how did he react?

After Nathanael met Jesus, he trusted wholeheartedly that Jesus was the Messiah, the Chosen One.

What now unites heaven and earth like a stairway?

Something more amazing than the stairway Jacob once saw in a dream (Genesis 28) now unites heaven and earth. Jesus is the mediator between God and all sinners. He opens heaven to all believers. Trust only in him.

Jesus is Our Peace

These are the readings for the Second Sunday after Christmas.

God’s Word for This Week

“O Little Town of Bethlehem,” we sing at Christmas time. Bethlehem, “the house of bread,” was a little town but an important town too. There, in humility, the Savior of the world was born.

First Lesson – Micah 5:2-5a

Why was Bethlehem seemingly an unlikely place for a king to be born? (See 5:2.)

Bethlehem was an unlikely place for a king to be born because it was a small town.

Even though Jesus was to be born in Bethlehem, what was his true origin? (See 5:2.)

His “goings out,” were from ancient times, “from days of eternity,” as the NIV footnote translates. He is the eternal Son of God, who has no beginning.

Besides being ruler and shepherd of God’s people, what else was Jesus predicted to be? (See 5:5.)

Micah predicted that Jesus would be our peace. That is, he would take our place under God’s law, then suffer and die under God’s holy judgment to earn our peace with God.

Second Lesson – Hebrews 2:10-18

List all the names Jesus receives in these nine verses.

The writer to the Hebrews calls him the Author of salvation, our Brother, our Rescuer, our High Priest.

Why did Jesus share in our humanity? (See 2:14.) Couldn’t he have just taken on the appearance of a man, without actually becoming a man?

Jesus shared in our humanity so that by his death he would destroy the one who holds the power of death, that is, the devil. He had to become a man to die in our place. God can’t die unless he is also human.

What kind of high priest for us is Jesus? (See 2:17,18)?

Jesus is a merciful and faithful high priest. He suffered, so he can help us in all our sufferings and temptations.

Gospel – John 7:40–43

On the last day of the Feast of Tabernacles, what two opinions did people have of Jesus? (See 7:40,41.)

Some thought he was the Prophet Moses promised in Deuteronomy 18. Others thought he was the Christ, God’s Anointed. The irony is that Jesus is both.

What confusion about Jesus’ origin caused this conflict? (See 7:41,42.)

People knew Jesus had grown up in Galilee, but Micah had prophesied that the Christ would be born in Bethlehem. People in Jerusalem, only a few miles from Bethlehem, did not know Jesus had been born there.

God Makes the Impossible Happen

These are the readings for the Fourth Sunday in Advent.

God’s Word for This Week

We have many hopes and dreams in this world. Some even seem to have honorable motives. The Lord, though, steps in and outshines our plans with the miraculous. He sends his Son to earth in a miraculous way to set up an eternal kingdom. Then in an equally wondrous way, he draws us into that kingdom through the gospel and establishes our place in it.

First Lesson – 2 Samuel 7:8-16

What does God promise for David?

David had wanted to build a permanent house (temple) for his God. The Lord told him someone else would build the house of the Lord. Yet God was going to make David’s name great and make the conditions ideal for his people. He accomplished that in Jesus, a “son” of David.

What house would the Lord establish for David?

This prophecy goes far beyond Solomon to the One who would establish an eternal kingdom. Jesus (Luke 1:29-33) would be the cornerstone of a spiritual house―a people in which God dwells with his Spirit―the people of God (Ephesians 2:19-22) who will rule eternally with Christ.

Second Lesson – Romans 16:25-27

How does God establish us in faith?

God uses the simple gospel message, the proclamation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, to create faith and obedience in people. Do you keep the connection strong by continual growth in God’s Word?

Who gets the praise for our stability in faith?

Sadly, people often emphasize their wise “choice” to follow Jesus. But that robs the praise from the One to whom all credit is due. The only wise God gets all the glory for setting up our salvation through Jesus and changing hearts to faith through the gospel. That will be the main theme of our singing, forever.

Gospel – Luke 1:26-38

How was it that Mary found favor with God?

Many people focus on Mary’s virtues, but God’s favor starts with his own loving plans and his unmerited choice. His favor focused on this one individual through whom the Holy Spirit would provide this miraculous birth. This happened so God’s favor could, in turn, rest on everyone because of that child.

What simple phrase answered Mary’s puzzled inquiry about having a child while she is still a virgin?

The angel helped her put aside simple, experiential logic and replace it with faith in God’s promise: “For nothing is impossible with God.” How important for us to realize this in the season that challenges the world with things too hard and awesome to explain—the birth of Jesus.