During the Church seasons of Advent and Christmas there is a natural emphasis on God the Son. In Advent, we look forward to the coming Savior, Jesus Christ. Seven hundred years before His birth, the prophet Isaiah wrote, “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a … Continue Reading
Understanding God’s Forgiveness Christianity is unique among world religions in that it presents peace and reconciliation with the Creator of mankind through grace, mercy, and sacrifice at God’s expense. This is in opposition to meriting goodness from the higher power based on our natural goodness or abilities, earning it through obedience and good works, or … Continue Reading
For children, the weeks leading up to Christmas are often filled with joyful anticipation. Businesses, schools, and churches hang decorations that make children mindful of wonderful food, family, and gifts! Unfortunately, these worldly things often become their focus and the limit of their anticipation. For many families (and even congregations), there is a sad lack … Continue Reading
“Redemption” and “salvation” are two words which many unbelievers and even Christians throw around interchangeably, supposing that they both refer to the same concept: that God makes it possible for us to go to heaven. In reality, although they are related, there is a crucial difference between the two. “Redemption” refers to undoing the effects … Continue Reading
Whatever the design of your Sunday School program, music should definitely play a part. Music and song are wonderful blessings of our creating God and have enriched the life of the Church throughout history. That being said, it’s vital that we don our Lutheran thinking caps and use Spirit-led, biblical discernment when selecting and integrating … Continue Reading
Where Is Jesus before Matthew’s Gospel? One of the greatest challenges teachers face is to present Jesus Christ from the Old Testament. Our Savior’s presence, role, and activity are apparent and accessible in the New Testament, beginning with Matthew’s Gospel, continuing in Paul’s letters, and through Revelation. As a result, we tend to underutilize the … Continue Reading
