The world cannot understand why people—young, affluent people, at that--do not want to live. We have so much wealth, freedom, entertainment, and pleasure—it seems. But these are not what we need, or were created for. What we were built for is meaning, purpose, and divine hope. But society has tried to get rid of the … Continue reading The Cause of the Suicide Crisis
Eucharistic Fasting or Self-Justification?
Some Lutherans have picked up the Roman language of “Eucharistic fasting” recently, applying it to not being able to receive the Lord’s Supper because many public church services are not being held. There are several problems with it, though it might be appealing at first glance. Fasting is biblical, but only in the sense that … Continue reading Eucharistic Fasting or Self-Justification?
The Cause of the Suicide Crisis
The world cannot understand why people—young, affluent people, at that—do not want to live. We have so much wealth, freedom, entertainment, and pleasure—it seems. But these are not what we need, or were created for. What we were built for is meaning, purpose, and divine hope. But society has tried to get rid of the … Continue reading The Cause of the Suicide Crisis
Martin Luther on Suicide
It is often cited that Luther had a liberal, modern attitude toward suicide. Luther’s oft-referenced thought is from the Table Talk, which is not the written words of Luther himself, but purport to be recorded from Luther’s informal conversations (around the table). The much-quoted passage reads: I don’t share the opinion that suicides are certainly … Continue reading Martin Luther on Suicide
COVID-19 Pandemic and the Digitalization of the Church
ilc-online.org/2020/04/18/essay-the-covid-19-pandemic-and-the-digitization-of-the-church/ This article is very insightful, but something is off—the truly Lutheran element is missing. The author emphasizes “divine service” as if it were a human work, instead of divine faith in the Word. The Word is not bound or limited—because neither is Christ, who fills all things. In faith, all spiritual gifts are had … Continue reading COVID-19 Pandemic and the Digitalization of the Church
Is the LCMS Now Copying the Amish?
An interesting document by Michael W. Newman, current president of the Texas district of the LCMS, appeared in Lutheran Mission Matters 28:2 (Nov. 2019): “Next Steps for LCMS Multiplication: Two Actions to Reignite a Gospel Movement.” The abstract is promising: “The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) experienced two robust periods of growth in its history. During … Continue reading Is the LCMS Now Copying the Amish?
To my Brothers in the Ministry in the Midst of Pestilence
I want to encourage you brothers. The sheep entrusted to our care and the communities in which we serve have enough people telling them what to be worried about, what precautions to take, and how to save themselves in the midst of this pestilence. Everyone is fully aware that we are in a crisis. They … Continue reading To my Brothers in the Ministry in the Midst of Pestilence
Martin Luther on the doctrine of Just War
Pastor Alex Post Redeemer Lutheran Church Marshalltown, IA Introduction Martin Luther wrote and preached to Christians in Germany about a wide range of issues, many of which we might hesitate to mention in congregations of the United States today. One of those issues is the debate on whether a particular war is just or unjust. … Continue reading Martin Luther on the doctrine of Just War
How are Lutheran Congregations Reassuring Members amid the Covid-19 Pandemic?
Our Savior Lutheran Chuch Centereach, NY Some may be wondering how Our Savior may be affected by the coronavirus. My intention is to be in church Sunday to honor the Lord,and serve God's people and lift up the world in prayer. Thank God I know of no such infections among us. I along with the … Continue reading How are Lutheran Congregations Reassuring Members amid the Covid-19 Pandemic?
The Coronavirus and Church
Everywhere the Coronavirus is lurking—at least the fear of it. Some are afraid to shake hands or go out in public. Is society is doomed to destruction? Does your imagination conjure up certain death and the image of mass graves? Do you fear for your life? This is all due to something we cannot see, … Continue reading The Coronavirus and Church
