The Rev. Paul J Cain, Jr.
Ephesians 2:11-22
A Holy Temple
Proper [11] B, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, 19 July 2009
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sheridan, Wyoming
To the saints who are… faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:1b-2) Amen.
When we think of the word “church,” usually we think of a building like this one. It looks like a church. But that use of the word “church” is only secondary. We could still have the “church” and have a church service without a building. The primary meaning of “church” is “Christian people, or as St. Paul explains to the Christians in Ephesus: 19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
It was not always that way. Jews and Gentiles, that is non-Jews, were separate. Gentiles were considered unclean. God’s ancient people were blessed so that they would be a blessing to the whole world. Now we know that this blessing culminated in Jesus’ Great Commission to make disciples of all nations—not just one or two, but all nations—by means of baptizing and teaching. The Hebrew Scriptures, our Old Testament, clearly say that God’s intent all along was for all people and all peoples to come to a knowledge of the truth and have faith and trust in the only true God.
Consider the many Gentiles of the Old Testament who were benefiting from the outreach of the grace of God. (Kaiser) Melchizedek, a Canaanite—king of Salem and priest of God most high. Jethro was a priest of Midian and later father-in-law to Moses. The prophet Balaam of Beor is a mysterious figure. He delivered God’s Word four times. Rahab was a prostitute. She hid Israel’s spies and showed that she feared the God of Israel more than she feared her own king of Jericho. Ruth was a Moabite woman who came to faith. And then Naaman, the Syrian army commander, was healed though the prophet Elisha.
God’s people of old ran into a great many Gentiles. Not many heard the word and believed. Paul urges us to remember God’s grace and not take it for granted.
[Therefore] 11Remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
The Jewish people were distinguished from other nations in ancient times by circumcision. The other nations were not circumcised.
Of even more importance is the word “therefore.” You don’t see it printed for you. In the Bible text, the word “therefore” at the beginning of verse eleven makes our text today the consequence of something the Ephesian Christians just heard. You should hear it, too.
8For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 (ESV)
Verses eight and nine of Ephesians 2 are familiar territory to us. Grace. Faith. Not your own doing. Gift. Not a result of works. Salvation is not because of who we are, something inside of us, what we have done, or even something we have had done to us, like circumcision. It’s all God’s work. Our good works then, are laid out for us by God in verse ten. We do them because that is what Christians do! If we forget, we are denying who God has made us to be and what he has prepared for us to do as His baptized people, the church.
Therefore. Yes, sometimes one word is significant. Why was it left out? Sometimes different Bible translations chop up the Greek sentences differently so that they are more readable in English. Sometimes lectionary committees leave off the first word of a reading to avoid little detours like the one we just took. Yet, Scripture must be read in context. Each part is connected to the whole.
[Therefore] 11Remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— 12remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
That was then. This is now, Paul says. That is the message of the word, “but.”
13But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15by abolishing the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. 17And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. 18For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.
“Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” The love God had for Jacob was so great, it appeared from the outside that Esau was hated. Jacob and Esau were eventually reconciled. God had a plan for Jacob. God Himself gave him a new name: Israel. Israel’s sons became the twelve tribes. After the centuries in Egypt and the decades of wilderness wandering, they settled in the promised land. God called His people to be separate, divided from other peoples, yet for a purpose: so that they would not be defiled by the surrounding culture and fall away from Him. Faithfulness. Faithlessness. Faithfulness. Faithlessness. With Israel and later the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, it seemed there was an endless cycle of faithfulness and then faithlessness. God was there in judgment, but always—always—He was there to preserve the faithful remnant so that Jesus would come to be a blessing to all people, both Jew and Gentile.
The blood of Christ brings all people near to God. That is the power of divine blood. Only with the shedding of blood is there forgiveness of sins. Once for all, Jesus completed and fulfilled all of the Old Testament animal sacrifice.
He is our peace. He came as the Prince of Peace at Christmas, making peace between sinful humanity and the holy God.
Dividing people on the basis of Jew or Gentile has come to an end in Christ. Language and ethnicity should not separate Christians today. It used to be called a “mixed marriage” when a German LCMS groom married a Swedish LCMS bride. That should not be. Only differences in doctrine—teaching should divide the church. And we should work on those divisions, too. One side or both have neglected, contradicted, or denied what God had to say on the matter. There is unity when both sides have the mind of Christ.
Salvation comes from the Father, in the Son, delivered by the Holy Spirit. In prayer, each Christian has access to the Father / through the Son / in the Spirit.
The Lord, through Paul, calls for a Godly unity in Christ. It is often a challenge, though, to explain Close Communion to a visitor. Though it is a Biblical, apostolic, and historic practice, emotions run high. Pastor Garwood is right—there is no silver bullet—there is no way to do justice to both this Biblical teaching on Holy Communion as well as pastorally care for a visitor in five minutes before Divine Service. How can we lovingly, yet clearly prepare for such an important conversation later?
Consider the following: Our Lord wants us all to be “on the same page” when it comes to what we believe and teach in this congregation. We are to be “on the same page” with Him and His Word first, and then with one another. Once we know that visitors or new members believe as we have been taught from the Word, then we welcome them to Holy Communion.
One Lord. One faith. One baptism. One God and Father of all has one Biblical truth all are to believe before we gather together to receive the one cup and one loaf at the Lord’s table.
19So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Individually, each one of you is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Together, we are the church, a holy temple in the Lord. Human opinion and wisdom have no place in this divine construction project.
Christ is our cornerstone. The apostles and prophets are our foundation. Together, we are nourished and built and joined together as one holy temple.
The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ, her Lord; She is His new creation by water and the Word. From heav’n He came and sought her To be His holy bride; With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died.
…you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Amen.
Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible. (Ephesians 6:23) Amen.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Sermon for 12 July 2009, Proper 10B
The Rev. Paul J Cain, Jr.
Ephesians 1:3–14
Every Spiritual Blessing
Proper [10] B, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, 12 July 2009
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sheridan, Wyoming
To the saints who are… faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:1b-2) Amen.
LSB 686: Come, Thou Fount of ev’ry blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. While the hold of endless glory Fills my heart with joy and love, Teach me ever to adore Thee; May I still Thy goodness prove.
St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians begins with praise, doxology. And for good reason. The Lord is all about blessing His people. Just listen to verse 3.
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places...
Paul is very specific. You are blessed by the Lord in Christ. Reporters love to get a scoop. Store chains love to have exclusive products. What you have in Christ is not available elsewhere for any price.
You are blessed with every spiritual blessing. There are many such blessings, as Paul will soon explain specifically, yet each blessing would be precious all by itself. Two weeks ago we heard, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.” As the Lord provided Manna to His people in the wilderness, know that with the Lord as your shepherd, you shall not want—you shall lack nothing you truly need. And neither shall your neighbor in need or the Lord’s work. You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Spiritual blessings. Those are not the kind of blessings we usually want to pray for. If we’re honest, we think we’d much rather have the “blessing” of that new truck, bike, tractor, house, or money. I’d love to have “five dollars more than I can spend.”
Paul wants you to know and believe in Jesus Christ and hold on to Him alone for dear life and eternal life. We pray for daily bread. Paul wants you to have eternal comfort, eternal blessings, spiritual blessings. He knows that only the Word of the Lord endures forever. The metal of fancy vehicles, the wood and stone of beautiful houses, and the gold, paper, and data of money will all rot, rust and fade. God’s spiritual blessings for you in Christ have no expiration date.
I’ve become more and more convinced lately that you are what you read. And watch and listen to. The Word of God renews, cleanses, and rewires your minds with God’s own heavenly perspective. Your Father above knows best what blessings will do you the most good for time and eternity. God has blessed you in the heavens above, infinitely superior to anything we have here on earth below.
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
You were chosen in Him from eternity. (Lutheran Confessions, Formula of Concord, Epitome XI.) Concerning the Eternal Predestination and Election of God, our Lutheran forefathers wrote,
1. First of all, the difference between God’s foreknowledge and his eternal election, must be carefully noted.
2. God’s foreknowledge is nothing else than that God knows all things before they happen, as it is written, “God in heaven reveals mysteries. He has disclosed to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in future times” (Dan. 2[:28]).
3. This foreknowledge extends equally over godly people and evil people, but it is not a cause of evil. It is not the cause of sins, when people act wrongly (sin proceeds originally from the devil and the wicked, perverted human will), nor of human corruption, for which people are responsible themselves. Instead, God’s foreknowledge provides order in the midst of evil and sets limits to it. It determines how long evil can continue and determines also that everything, even if it is evil in itself, serves the welfare of God’s elect.
4. [Predestination] however, or God’s eternal election, extends only to the righteous, God-pleasing children of God. It is a cause of their salvation, which God brings about. He has arranged everything that belongs to it. Our salvation is so firmly grounded on it [cf. John 10:26-29] that “the gates of hell will not prevail against it” [Matt. 16:18].
5. This election is not to be probed in the secret counsel of God but rather is to be sought in the Word, where it has also been revealed. (end quote)
You were chosen for a purpose, that [you] should be holy and blameless before him. In Christ, you have been declared holy. It follows then, that we live as the Baptized children of God, not like the unwashed masses of humanity.
In love 5he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.
Jesus is the Beloved Son. God has blessed you in Him, for God so loved the world. Adoption is legal language. Those so adopted are legally part of the family. Legal children are heirs and have an inheritance. That’s coming up soon in the text. You have been adopted as children of the Heavenly Father. That is the purpose of His will—that all would repent and believe and praise His glorious grace, undeserved, unmerited, truly a Gift and blessing of the Lord.
Here I raise my Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I’ve come; And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wand’ring from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood.
7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Redemption. Language from the marketplace. (Just Words) The idea that Christ has purchased us or redeemed us…comes out of the background of the slave market. The redemption [way of speaking the Gospel] focuses…on the act of paying the price. God redeems us; now redeemed, we are owned by God…
The word “Forgiveness” (Just Words) is used several ways in Scripture. It is used as a commercial metaphor [for the Gospel], denoting the cancellation of a debt. It is also used as a personal metaphor to illustrate what happens between people…when the reason of the division is eliminated or removed…[It] signals the restoration of a wholesome relationship between God and His creatures. The way is now clear for the original relationship with God for which we were created…[The word “forgiveness is intimately connected to repentance and also forgetting, or at least not remembering. Now that’s a blessing in itself!]
God plans to unite all things in heaven and earth in Himself, to restore the relationship between God and man to the way He intended in Eden, before the fall into sin.
To do this, God reveals the mystery of His will, which Paul explains in Ephesians 3: When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
Oh, to grace how great a debtor Daily I’m constrained to be; Let that grace now like a fetter Bind my wand’ring heart to Thee: Prone to wander, Lord I feel it; Prone to leave the God I love. Here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above.
The list of spiritual blessings in Christ continue.
11In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Those who are adopted are heirs. Heirs stand to receive the inheritance. By faith, we hope in Christ.
You have heard the Word of Truth. Truly it is a Gospel of Salvation. Salvation is a word of deliverance. Salvation means that we need to be saved, or delivered from a life-and-death threat, a mortal enemy. Certainly the Devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh qualify.
And you are sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, the guarantee of your inheritance, the down payment of God Himself dwelling within you, as in a temple.
11In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
We live day by day, but with eternity in mind. We have an eternal perspective while we pray for our daily bread, even in the midst of daily troubles.
Concordia Pulpit Resources: The old man had a visitor. His grandson had come to see him one last time before the old man died. “Grandfather, “he said, “how can you still cling to your faith when you’ve faced all this trouble in your life? How do you know God really loves you? “My dear grandson,” he replied, “it’s because of all this trouble that I’m sure Jesus loves me. Through it I’ve learned to depend solely on Him for all my needs. In these times of trouble, I’ve learned to take hold of Christ with all my might. He has helped me and kept me in every time of need. If there’s one thing I could leave you with, it would be to hold on to Christ! He will never disappoint you.” End quote.
Oh, that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face; Clothed then in the blood-washed linen How I’ll sing Thy wondrous grace! Come, my Lord, no longer tarry, Take my ransom’d soul away; Send Thine angels soon to carry Me to realms of endless day.
The apostle Paul wrote Ephesians to the churches around Ephesus (Acts 19) to display the scope of God’s eternal plans for all humanity—for Jews and Gentiles alike. This is the mystery of God, hidden for ages but now made known in Jesus Christ. The first three chapters focus on what Christians believe, unfolding the glorious riches of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. Dead sinners are made alive and gain eternal salvation “by grace . . . through faith” (2:8). The last three chapters explain the implications of God’s grace for the church, for individuals, and for families. This second section comes to a climax with a command to stand with the armor of God against the devil. Paul probably wrote this letter while in prison in Rome about a.d. 60.
Seven more readings from Ephesians follow this summer as sermon texts. Consider reading the brief book of Ephesians in your family devotions. Read it as a short story—all in one sitting. God’s Word is yet another spiritual blessing.
God has good Gifts for you at Immanuel Lutheran Church. You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Amen.
Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible. (Ephesians 6:23) Amen.
Ephesians 1:3–14
Every Spiritual Blessing
Proper [10] B, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, 12 July 2009
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sheridan, Wyoming
To the saints who are… faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 1:1b-2) Amen.
LSB 686: Come, Thou Fount of ev’ry blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. While the hold of endless glory Fills my heart with joy and love, Teach me ever to adore Thee; May I still Thy goodness prove.
St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians begins with praise, doxology. And for good reason. The Lord is all about blessing His people. Just listen to verse 3.
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places...
Paul is very specific. You are blessed by the Lord in Christ. Reporters love to get a scoop. Store chains love to have exclusive products. What you have in Christ is not available elsewhere for any price.
You are blessed with every spiritual blessing. There are many such blessings, as Paul will soon explain specifically, yet each blessing would be precious all by itself. Two weeks ago we heard, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.” As the Lord provided Manna to His people in the wilderness, know that with the Lord as your shepherd, you shall not want—you shall lack nothing you truly need. And neither shall your neighbor in need or the Lord’s work. You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Spiritual blessings. Those are not the kind of blessings we usually want to pray for. If we’re honest, we think we’d much rather have the “blessing” of that new truck, bike, tractor, house, or money. I’d love to have “five dollars more than I can spend.”
Paul wants you to know and believe in Jesus Christ and hold on to Him alone for dear life and eternal life. We pray for daily bread. Paul wants you to have eternal comfort, eternal blessings, spiritual blessings. He knows that only the Word of the Lord endures forever. The metal of fancy vehicles, the wood and stone of beautiful houses, and the gold, paper, and data of money will all rot, rust and fade. God’s spiritual blessings for you in Christ have no expiration date.
I’ve become more and more convinced lately that you are what you read. And watch and listen to. The Word of God renews, cleanses, and rewires your minds with God’s own heavenly perspective. Your Father above knows best what blessings will do you the most good for time and eternity. God has blessed you in the heavens above, infinitely superior to anything we have here on earth below.
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, 4even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love 5he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
You were chosen in Him from eternity. (Lutheran Confessions, Formula of Concord, Epitome XI.) Concerning the Eternal Predestination and Election of God, our Lutheran forefathers wrote,
1. First of all, the difference between God’s foreknowledge and his eternal election, must be carefully noted.
2. God’s foreknowledge is nothing else than that God knows all things before they happen, as it is written, “God in heaven reveals mysteries. He has disclosed to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in future times” (Dan. 2[:28]).
3. This foreknowledge extends equally over godly people and evil people, but it is not a cause of evil. It is not the cause of sins, when people act wrongly (sin proceeds originally from the devil and the wicked, perverted human will), nor of human corruption, for which people are responsible themselves. Instead, God’s foreknowledge provides order in the midst of evil and sets limits to it. It determines how long evil can continue and determines also that everything, even if it is evil in itself, serves the welfare of God’s elect.
4. [Predestination] however, or God’s eternal election, extends only to the righteous, God-pleasing children of God. It is a cause of their salvation, which God brings about. He has arranged everything that belongs to it. Our salvation is so firmly grounded on it [cf. John 10:26-29] that “the gates of hell will not prevail against it” [Matt. 16:18].
5. This election is not to be probed in the secret counsel of God but rather is to be sought in the Word, where it has also been revealed. (end quote)
You were chosen for a purpose, that [you] should be holy and blameless before him. In Christ, you have been declared holy. It follows then, that we live as the Baptized children of God, not like the unwashed masses of humanity.
In love 5he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, 6to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.
Jesus is the Beloved Son. God has blessed you in Him, for God so loved the world. Adoption is legal language. Those so adopted are legally part of the family. Legal children are heirs and have an inheritance. That’s coming up soon in the text. You have been adopted as children of the Heavenly Father. That is the purpose of His will—that all would repent and believe and praise His glorious grace, undeserved, unmerited, truly a Gift and blessing of the Lord.
Here I raise my Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I’ve come; And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home. Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wand’ring from the fold of God; He, to rescue me from danger, Interposed His precious blood.
7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Redemption. Language from the marketplace. (Just Words) The idea that Christ has purchased us or redeemed us…comes out of the background of the slave market. The redemption [way of speaking the Gospel] focuses…on the act of paying the price. God redeems us; now redeemed, we are owned by God…
The word “Forgiveness” (Just Words) is used several ways in Scripture. It is used as a commercial metaphor [for the Gospel], denoting the cancellation of a debt. It is also used as a personal metaphor to illustrate what happens between people…when the reason of the division is eliminated or removed…[It] signals the restoration of a wholesome relationship between God and His creatures. The way is now clear for the original relationship with God for which we were created…[The word “forgiveness is intimately connected to repentance and also forgetting, or at least not remembering. Now that’s a blessing in itself!]
God plans to unite all things in heaven and earth in Himself, to restore the relationship between God and man to the way He intended in Eden, before the fall into sin.
To do this, God reveals the mystery of His will, which Paul explains in Ephesians 3: When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
Oh, to grace how great a debtor Daily I’m constrained to be; Let that grace now like a fetter Bind my wand’ring heart to Thee: Prone to wander, Lord I feel it; Prone to leave the God I love. Here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it, Seal it for Thy courts above.
The list of spiritual blessings in Christ continue.
11In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
Those who are adopted are heirs. Heirs stand to receive the inheritance. By faith, we hope in Christ.
You have heard the Word of Truth. Truly it is a Gospel of Salvation. Salvation is a word of deliverance. Salvation means that we need to be saved, or delivered from a life-and-death threat, a mortal enemy. Certainly the Devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh qualify.
And you are sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, the guarantee of your inheritance, the down payment of God Himself dwelling within you, as in a temple.
11In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will, 12so that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory. 13In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.
We live day by day, but with eternity in mind. We have an eternal perspective while we pray for our daily bread, even in the midst of daily troubles.
Concordia Pulpit Resources: The old man had a visitor. His grandson had come to see him one last time before the old man died. “Grandfather, “he said, “how can you still cling to your faith when you’ve faced all this trouble in your life? How do you know God really loves you? “My dear grandson,” he replied, “it’s because of all this trouble that I’m sure Jesus loves me. Through it I’ve learned to depend solely on Him for all my needs. In these times of trouble, I’ve learned to take hold of Christ with all my might. He has helped me and kept me in every time of need. If there’s one thing I could leave you with, it would be to hold on to Christ! He will never disappoint you.” End quote.
Oh, that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face; Clothed then in the blood-washed linen How I’ll sing Thy wondrous grace! Come, my Lord, no longer tarry, Take my ransom’d soul away; Send Thine angels soon to carry Me to realms of endless day.
The apostle Paul wrote Ephesians to the churches around Ephesus (Acts 19) to display the scope of God’s eternal plans for all humanity—for Jews and Gentiles alike. This is the mystery of God, hidden for ages but now made known in Jesus Christ. The first three chapters focus on what Christians believe, unfolding the glorious riches of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. Dead sinners are made alive and gain eternal salvation “by grace . . . through faith” (2:8). The last three chapters explain the implications of God’s grace for the church, for individuals, and for families. This second section comes to a climax with a command to stand with the armor of God against the devil. Paul probably wrote this letter while in prison in Rome about a.d. 60.
Seven more readings from Ephesians follow this summer as sermon texts. Consider reading the brief book of Ephesians in your family devotions. Read it as a short story—all in one sitting. God’s Word is yet another spiritual blessing.
God has good Gifts for you at Immanuel Lutheran Church. You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Amen.
Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible. (Ephesians 6:23) Amen.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
No Text Sermon This Week
Pastor preached "without a net," using just the appointed Gospel, Mark 6:1-13.
Listen here:
http://www.myspace.com/immanuelsheridan
Listen here:
http://www.myspace.com/immanuelsheridan
A Bonus Sermon for St. Peter and St. Paul, 29 June 2009
The Rev. Paul J Cain, Jr.
Matthew 16:13-19
Who Is Jesus?
St. Peter and St. Paul, 29 June 2009
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sheridan, Wyoming
In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Holy Gospel appointed for today is one of the most controversial in Christian history: Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Part of the controversy over this passage of Matthew 16 concerns Jesus. Who is He? Some pastors in our community deny that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. In denying that truth of the Word of God, such persons are publicly denying that the Holy Bible is God’s Word. They are unfaithful to their office, their congregation, and their Lord. They are saying that their human knowledge about God is better than what the Father Himself reveals about Himself and His Son from heaven. They are setting themselves above the Word, much like the Roman Catholic Pope. And the controversy over the power and primacy of the Pope is addressed in our Lutheran Confessions: “Therefore, these passages demonstrate that Peter is the representative of the entire assembly of the apostles. They do not grant Peter any privilege or superiority or lordship.25 As for the declaration “on this rock I will build My church” [Matthew 16:18], certainly the Church has not been built upon the authority of a man. Rather, it has been built upon the ministry of the confession Peter made, in which he proclaims that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God [Matthew 16:16]. Therefore, Christ addresses Peter as a minister, “On this rock,” that is, this ministry. ‹Therefore, He addresses him as a minister of this office in which this confession, and doctrine is to be in operation and says: “Upon this rock,” i.e., this preaching and preaching office.›
26 Furthermore, the ministry of the New Testament is not bound to places and persons like the Levitical [Old Testament] ministry was. Rather, it is spread throughout the whole world. That is where God gives His gifts, apostles, prophets, pastors, and teachers [Ephesians 4:11]. Nor does this ministry work because of the authority of any person, but because of the Word given by Christ [Romans 10:17]. ‹Nor does the person add anything to this Word and office; it matters not who is preaching and teaching it; if there are hearts who receive and cling to it, to them it is done as they hear and believe.›
27 Most of the holy Church Fathers, such as Origen, Cyprian, Augustine, Hilary, and Bede, interpret the passage “on this rock” in this way, as not referring to the person of Peter. 28 Chrysostom says this: “Upon this rock,” not upon Peter. For He built His Church not upon man, but upon the faith of Peter. But what was his faith? “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 29 Hilary says: The Father revealed to Peter that he should say, “You are the Son of the living God” [Matthew 16:17]. Therefore, the building of the Church is upon this rock of confession. This faith is the foundation of the Church. [1]
Who is Jesus? He is a prophet, but not a reincarnated prophet of old. He isn’t Jeremiah, Elijah, or even John the Baptist merely brought back to life. He is the Christ, the Messiah, the One Anointed to be the Savior of the world. He is the Son of the Living God, God Himself. This is part of the unique confession of faith of Christians.
If that were not objectively true, that Jesus is the Son of the Living God and God Himself, what would that mean? A mere man is incapable of hearing prayer. That kind of merely mortal Jesus would be useless if you or are someone you love was hospitalized. Comparing Islam to Christianity, the God of the false prophet Mohammed is not the Father of Jesus. Muslims deny that Jesus is the Son of God. To them, Jesus is merely a prophet and an example, not a Savior. In the Bible, Jesus presents Himself to you.
Allow me to re-introduce and redefine a term for you. That term is catholic. You can’t see my sermon manuscript, but the world “catholic” printed here has a small “c,” not a Captial “C.” There is a big difference. The big C has been associated with the Roman Church for about five hundred years. I want to ignore that word and emphasize the small “c” word “catholic,” which is the common property of all Christians of every time and place. We have nothing to fear of being small “c” catholic, for that word refers to what Christians have always and everywhere believed, taught, and confessed about the Lord, Christ, and salvation from the Bible and the Bible alone.
Is denying what the Bible says on any point small “c” catholic? No. Is adding to the Bible small “c” catholic? No. We have no reason, therefore, to trust the Book of Mormon, Mohammed’s Koran, or any other man-made so-called sacred book. We can call to repentance all who deny the Bible’s promises about the forgiveness of sins, Holy Baptism, or Holy Communion. And we can safely reject the new teachings of the Roman Church such as praying to Mary, angels, and the saints, and we can also safely say that the Roman Pope is not God’s sole supreme authority on earth.
CTLC: “The foundation of all Roman Catholic arguments for the authority of the pope rests on the interpretation of Matthew 16:18 and John 21:15–17. Rome claims that Matthew 16:18 is the “proof text” for papal authority. The argument goes like this: The Lord chose St. Peter to be the head of the apostles, and as such, Christ promises to build His Church on Peter, the Rock. A careful study of the actual words of this text reveals that in fact Christ is playing off Peter’s name [in Greek], “Petros,” to speak about the “Petra,” the rock-solid truth that Peter is expressing, namely, the truth about Christ. On the rock of Peter’s confession—not Peter himself—Christ says He is building His Church.” [2]
In His Word, Jesus does not give us the option to merely consider him as just a man, just a prophet, or just a good moral teacher. He is, according to C. S. Lewis, a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord.
Who is Jesus? He is the Christ, the Son of God, the True Head of His Christian Church on earth. Jesus is the author, the authority behind God’s Word. He is our Savior, Redeemer and Friend, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He is the One in Whom we believe, He Whose Person and Work form the content of our Christian teaching. Jesus is the solid Rock upon Whom we build our earthly and heavenly lives. When a pastor stands to announce the forgiveness of your sins “in the stead and by the command” of Christ, the keys of the kingdom of heaven loose in heaven the sins that are loosed on earth in Jesus’ name. He is, after all, always doing His name. Jesus means “Savior.” In the Name of Jesus. Amen.
In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
[1]Concordia : The Lutheran Confessions. 2005 (Edited by Paul Timothy McCain) (297). St. Louis, MO: Concordia Publishing House.
[2]Concordia : The Lutheran Confessions. 2005 (Edited by Paul Timothy McCain) (291). St. Louis, MO: Concordia Publishing House.
Matthew 16:13-19
Who Is Jesus?
St. Peter and St. Paul, 29 June 2009
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sheridan, Wyoming
In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Holy Gospel appointed for today is one of the most controversial in Christian history: Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Part of the controversy over this passage of Matthew 16 concerns Jesus. Who is He? Some pastors in our community deny that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. In denying that truth of the Word of God, such persons are publicly denying that the Holy Bible is God’s Word. They are unfaithful to their office, their congregation, and their Lord. They are saying that their human knowledge about God is better than what the Father Himself reveals about Himself and His Son from heaven. They are setting themselves above the Word, much like the Roman Catholic Pope. And the controversy over the power and primacy of the Pope is addressed in our Lutheran Confessions: “Therefore, these passages demonstrate that Peter is the representative of the entire assembly of the apostles. They do not grant Peter any privilege or superiority or lordship.25 As for the declaration “on this rock I will build My church” [Matthew 16:18], certainly the Church has not been built upon the authority of a man. Rather, it has been built upon the ministry of the confession Peter made, in which he proclaims that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God [Matthew 16:16]. Therefore, Christ addresses Peter as a minister, “On this rock,” that is, this ministry. ‹Therefore, He addresses him as a minister of this office in which this confession, and doctrine is to be in operation and says: “Upon this rock,” i.e., this preaching and preaching office.›
26 Furthermore, the ministry of the New Testament is not bound to places and persons like the Levitical [Old Testament] ministry was. Rather, it is spread throughout the whole world. That is where God gives His gifts, apostles, prophets, pastors, and teachers [Ephesians 4:11]. Nor does this ministry work because of the authority of any person, but because of the Word given by Christ [Romans 10:17]. ‹Nor does the person add anything to this Word and office; it matters not who is preaching and teaching it; if there are hearts who receive and cling to it, to them it is done as they hear and believe.›
27 Most of the holy Church Fathers, such as Origen, Cyprian, Augustine, Hilary, and Bede, interpret the passage “on this rock” in this way, as not referring to the person of Peter. 28 Chrysostom says this: “Upon this rock,” not upon Peter. For He built His Church not upon man, but upon the faith of Peter. But what was his faith? “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 29 Hilary says: The Father revealed to Peter that he should say, “You are the Son of the living God” [Matthew 16:17]. Therefore, the building of the Church is upon this rock of confession. This faith is the foundation of the Church. [1]
Who is Jesus? He is a prophet, but not a reincarnated prophet of old. He isn’t Jeremiah, Elijah, or even John the Baptist merely brought back to life. He is the Christ, the Messiah, the One Anointed to be the Savior of the world. He is the Son of the Living God, God Himself. This is part of the unique confession of faith of Christians.
If that were not objectively true, that Jesus is the Son of the Living God and God Himself, what would that mean? A mere man is incapable of hearing prayer. That kind of merely mortal Jesus would be useless if you or are someone you love was hospitalized. Comparing Islam to Christianity, the God of the false prophet Mohammed is not the Father of Jesus. Muslims deny that Jesus is the Son of God. To them, Jesus is merely a prophet and an example, not a Savior. In the Bible, Jesus presents Himself to you.
Allow me to re-introduce and redefine a term for you. That term is catholic. You can’t see my sermon manuscript, but the world “catholic” printed here has a small “c,” not a Captial “C.” There is a big difference. The big C has been associated with the Roman Church for about five hundred years. I want to ignore that word and emphasize the small “c” word “catholic,” which is the common property of all Christians of every time and place. We have nothing to fear of being small “c” catholic, for that word refers to what Christians have always and everywhere believed, taught, and confessed about the Lord, Christ, and salvation from the Bible and the Bible alone.
Is denying what the Bible says on any point small “c” catholic? No. Is adding to the Bible small “c” catholic? No. We have no reason, therefore, to trust the Book of Mormon, Mohammed’s Koran, or any other man-made so-called sacred book. We can call to repentance all who deny the Bible’s promises about the forgiveness of sins, Holy Baptism, or Holy Communion. And we can safely reject the new teachings of the Roman Church such as praying to Mary, angels, and the saints, and we can also safely say that the Roman Pope is not God’s sole supreme authority on earth.
CTLC: “The foundation of all Roman Catholic arguments for the authority of the pope rests on the interpretation of Matthew 16:18 and John 21:15–17. Rome claims that Matthew 16:18 is the “proof text” for papal authority. The argument goes like this: The Lord chose St. Peter to be the head of the apostles, and as such, Christ promises to build His Church on Peter, the Rock. A careful study of the actual words of this text reveals that in fact Christ is playing off Peter’s name [in Greek], “Petros,” to speak about the “Petra,” the rock-solid truth that Peter is expressing, namely, the truth about Christ. On the rock of Peter’s confession—not Peter himself—Christ says He is building His Church.” [2]
In His Word, Jesus does not give us the option to merely consider him as just a man, just a prophet, or just a good moral teacher. He is, according to C. S. Lewis, a liar, a lunatic, or the Lord.
Who is Jesus? He is the Christ, the Son of God, the True Head of His Christian Church on earth. Jesus is the author, the authority behind God’s Word. He is our Savior, Redeemer and Friend, the Author and Finisher of our faith. He is the One in Whom we believe, He Whose Person and Work form the content of our Christian teaching. Jesus is the solid Rock upon Whom we build our earthly and heavenly lives. When a pastor stands to announce the forgiveness of your sins “in the stead and by the command” of Christ, the keys of the kingdom of heaven loose in heaven the sins that are loosed on earth in Jesus’ name. He is, after all, always doing His name. Jesus means “Savior.” In the Name of Jesus. Amen.
In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
[1]Concordia : The Lutheran Confessions. 2005 (Edited by Paul Timothy McCain) (297). St. Louis, MO: Concordia Publishing House.
[2]Concordia : The Lutheran Confessions. 2005 (Edited by Paul Timothy McCain) (291). St. Louis, MO: Concordia Publishing House.
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