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The illness and death of Lazarus happened “that the Son of God may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). Jesus’ miracle of raising Lazarus prompted His arrest and crucifixion, whereby He would die “for the nation” and gather “into one the children of God who are scattered abroad” (John 11:51–52). As He called Lazarus from the tomb and commanded others to “unbind him, and let him go” (John 11:44), Jesus also calls us and releases us from the bondage of sin and death. We would not “submit to God’s law,” nor could we “please God” (Rom. 8:7–8), but “He condemned sin” in His own flesh, so “that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us” (Rom. 8:3–4). Now, through the Gospel, “the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells” in us (Rom. 8:11). His Word breathes His Spirit into our mortal flesh, animating us with His own life.  As His ministers preach according to His divine command, the Lord Jesus calls us from the grave into the good land that He gives us (Ezek. 37:12, 14).

SERMON “Dry Bones? Take a Drink from Jesus’ Living Water!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The illness and death of Lazarus happened “that the Son of God may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). Jesus’ miracle of raising Lazarus prompted His arrest and crucifixion, whereby He would die “for the nation” and gather “into one the children of God who are scattered abroad” (John 11:51–52). As He called Lazarus from the tomb and commanded others to “unbind him, and let him go” (John 11:44), Jesus also calls us and releases us from the bondage of sin and death. We would not “submit to God’s law,” nor could we “please God” (Rom. 8:7–8), but “He condemned sin” in His own flesh, so “that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us” (Rom. 8:3–4). Now, through the Gospel, “the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells” in us (Rom. 8:11). His Word breathes His Spirit into our mortal flesh, animating us with His own life.  As His ministers preach according to His divine command, the Lord Jesus calls us from the grave into the good land that He gives us (Ezek. 37:12, 14).

SERMON “Dry Bones? Take a Drink from Jesus’ Living Water!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord is grieved by the spiritual blindness of His people, yet in mercy He does not forsake them. He restrains His anger and keeps His peace, until He opens their ears and eyes to hear and see Him. “For His righteousness’ sake” He magnifies His Word and makes it glorious in the coming of Christ Jesus (Is. 42:21). Jesus turns “the darkness before them into light” (Is. 42:16), because He is “the Light of the world” (John 9:5). The incarnate Son of God works the works of His Father and displays the divine glory in His own flesh “while it is day” until that night “when no one can work” (John 9:4). By the washing of water with His Word He opens the eyes of the blind and grants rest to the weary. Therefore, though “at one time you were darkness,” now “you are light in the Lord” (Eph. 5:8). By our Baptism into Christ we live in the eternal day of His Resurrection, wherein He shines upon us. As often as we fall back into the darkness of sin, He calls us by the Gospel to “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead” (Eph. 5:14).

SERMON: “What’s America’s Idol? The Lord Alone Is Worthy of Praise!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord is grieved by the spiritual blindness of His people, yet in mercy He does not forsake them. He restrains His anger and keeps His peace, until He opens their ears and eyes to hear and see Him. “For His righteousness’ sake” He magnifies His Word and makes it glorious in the coming of Christ Jesus (Is. 42:21). Jesus turns “the darkness before them into light” (Is. 42:16), because He is “the Light of the world” (John 9:5). The incarnate Son of God works the works of His Father and displays the divine glory in His own flesh “while it is day” until that night “when no one can work” (John 9:4). By the washing of water with His Word He opens the eyes of the blind and grants rest to the weary. Therefore, though “at one time you were darkness,” now “you are light in the Lord” (Eph. 5:8). By our Baptism into Christ we live in the eternal day of His Resurrection, wherein He shines upon us. As often as we fall back into the darkness of sin, He calls us by the Gospel to “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead” (Eph. 5:14).

SERMON: “What’s America’s Idol? The Lord Alone Is Worthy of Praise!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Though the Lord had brought them out of Egypt, “all the congregation of the people of Israel” grumbled against Him, because “there was no water for the people to drink”(Ex. 17:1). Despite their quarreling, the Lord graciously provided for them. He did not strike the people for their sins, but by the hand of Moses He struck the Rock instead and brought forth water for the people. In the same way living water flows from the pierced side of Christ “about the sixth hour” (John 4:6, 19:14), the well from which the Holy Spirit is poured out and becomes in His people “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (john 4:14). By this grace in which we stand, being at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, we “worship the Father in sprit and truth” (John 4:23). “We rejoice in hope of the glory of God,” because “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Rom. 5:2,5).

SERMON: “When Things Go Wrong Don’t Go with Them”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Though the Lord had brought them out of Egypt, “all the congregation of the people of Israel” grumbled against Him, because “there was no water for the people to drink”(Ex. 17:1). Despite their quarreling, the Lord graciously provided for them. He did not strike the people for their sins, but by the hand of Moses He struck the Rock instead and brought forth water for the people. In the same way living water flows from the pierced side of Christ “about the sixth hour” (John 4:6, 19:14), the well from which the Holy Spirit is poured out and becomes in His people “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (john 4:14). By this grace in which we stand, being at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, we “worship the Father in sprit and truth” (John 4:23). “We rejoice in hope of the glory of God,” because “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Rom. 5:2,5).

SERMON: “When Things Go Wrong Don’t Go with Them”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord called Abram (Abraham) to leave his home and go to a land that God would show him.  He also promised to make of Abram “a great nation,” to bless him and make his name great, as a blessing to “all the families of the earth” (Gen. 12:2–3). “Abram went, as the Lord had told him” (Gen. 12:4), and in Canaan “he built an altar to the Lord and called upon the name of the Lord” (Gen. 12:8).  He “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). Here the grace of God is manifested, that He “justifies the ungodly” (Rom. 4:5), not by works of the Law, but through faith in His promises. He removes all our sins and lawless deeds through Jesus Christ, the Offspring of Abraham in whom all the Lord’s promises are realized. This forgiveness of sins is the Word of the Gospel, the voice of the Holy Spirit, which “gives life to the dead” (Rom. 4:17). It opens the eyes of faith to behold Christ Jesus, the Son of Man lifted up on the Cross, “that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life” (John 3:14–15).

SERMON: “Faith Is Like Muscle, It Grows Stronger with Exercise”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord called Abram (Abraham) to leave his home and go to a land that God would show him.  He also promised to make of Abram “a great nation,” to bless him and make his name great, as a blessing to “all the families of the earth” (Gen. 12:2–3). “Abram went, as the Lord had told him” (Gen. 12:4), and in Canaan “he built an altar to the Lord and called upon the name of the Lord” (Gen. 12:8).  He “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness” (Rom. 4:3). Here the grace of God is manifested, that He “justifies the ungodly” (Rom. 4:5), not by works of the Law, but through faith in His promises. He removes all our sins and lawless deeds through Jesus Christ, the Offspring of Abraham in whom all the Lord’s promises are realized. This forgiveness of sins is the Word of the Gospel, the voice of the Holy Spirit, which “gives life to the dead” (Rom. 4:17). It opens the eyes of faith to behold Christ Jesus, the Son of Man lifted up on the Cross, “that whoever believes in Him may have eternal life” (John 3:14–15).

SERMON: “Faith Is Like Muscle, It Grows Stronger with Exercise”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Following His Baptism, Jesus is “led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matt. 4:1). As He takes upon Himself the curse of our sin and sets Himself against our enemy, He trusts His Father’s voice and waits upon His Father’s hand for all things. The devil questions His sonship, but the beloved and well-pleasing Son remains faithful and lives “by every Word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4). Jesus patiently suffers hunger in His mortal flesh and returns to the dust whence man was taken, and by His pain He brings forth food for all the children of men (Gen. 3:18–19). By the sweat of His brow we eat the fruit of His Cross, even as our nakedness is covered by His righteousness. Although all people live in bondage to death through the trespass of the first man, Adam, all the more “have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one Man Jesus Christ abounded for many” (Rom. 5:15).  His righteous obedience “leads to justification and life for all men” (Rom. 5:18).

SERMON: “Forbidden Fruit Creates Many Jams”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Following His Baptism, Jesus is “led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matt. 4:1). As He takes upon Himself the curse of our sin and sets Himself against our enemy, He trusts His Father’s voice and waits upon His Father’s hand for all things. The devil questions His sonship, but the beloved and well-pleasing Son remains faithful and lives “by every Word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4). Jesus patiently suffers hunger in His mortal flesh and returns to the dust whence man was taken, and by His pain He brings forth food for all the children of men (Gen. 3:18–19). By the sweat of His brow we eat the fruit of His Cross, even as our nakedness is covered by His righteousness. Although all people live in bondage to death through the trespass of the first man, Adam, all the more “have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one Man Jesus Christ abounded for many” (Rom. 5:15).  His righteous obedience “leads to justification and life for all men” (Rom. 5:18).

SERMON: “Forbidden Fruit Creates Many Jams”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Transfiguration confirms “the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place” (2 Pet. 1:19). The divine glory of Jesus is manifested in the word of His apostles, who were “eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Pet. 1:16). “He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun” (Matt. 17:2). Moses and Elijah witnessed the fulfillment of the Old Testament in this Lord Jesus, and the Father testified concerning Him: “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 17:5). By His own blood, shed on the cross, Jesus makes and seals the new covenant with us. Hence, “the appearance of the glory of the Lord” is no longer “like a devouring fire” (Ex. 24:17), but is graciously revealed in His own body. As “Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel” went up the mountain with Moses and “beheld God, and ate and drank” (Ex. 24:9, 11), we also behold the Lord our God in Christ Jesus, and we abide with Him as we eat and drink His body and blood at the altar.

SERMON: Matthew 17:1-9    “How Good, Lord, To Be Here”  by visiting Pastor Lowell Siebrass.

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The Transfiguration confirms “the prophetic word, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place” (2 Pet. 1:19). The divine glory of Jesus is manifested in the word of His apostles, who were “eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Pet. 1:16). “He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun” (Matt. 17:2). Moses and Elijah witnessed the fulfillment of the Old Testament in this Lord Jesus, and the Father testified concerning Him: “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 17:5). By His own blood, shed on the cross, Jesus makes and seals the new covenant with us. Hence, “the appearance of the glory of the Lord” is no longer “like a devouring fire” (Ex. 24:17), but is graciously revealed in His own body. As “Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel” went up the mountain with Moses and “beheld God, and ate and drank” (Ex. 24:9, 11), we also behold the Lord our God in Christ Jesus, and we abide with Him as we eat and drink His body and blood at the altar.

SERMON: Matthew 17:1-9    “How Good, Lord, To Be Here”  by visiting Pastor Lowell Siebrass.

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Today is the fifth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. When we find ourselves in difficult situations, like David did when he was hiding from Saul in caves (1 Sam. 18-23), we can blame God for abandoning us, or in faith, realize that He is with us in our “caves.”

SERMON: “Failure Is the Path of Least Persistence” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. To boldly go where no one has gone before! II. Responses to failure. III. David and the Cave of failure. IV. Good news for Cave dwellers.

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Today is the fifth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. When we find ourselves in difficult situations, like David did when he was hiding from Saul in caves (1 Sam. 18-23), we can blame God for abandoning us, or in faith, realize that He is with us in our “caves.”

SERMON: “Failure Is the Path of Least Persistence” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. To boldly go where no one has gone before! II. Responses to failure. III. David and the Cave of failure. IV. Good news for Cave dwellers.

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Today is the fourth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. When fears and hardships appear, we can trust that God will give us the faith needed to persevere. Just as the angel told Mary, Fear not!” when faced with bearing the Son of God, we are also told not to fear in our journey of faith because the Lord will give us strength needed.

SERMON: “Facing Our Challenges, Conquering Our Fears” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. The Wind and Other Distractions II. Resilience in the Face of Trauma III. God’s Command: “Don’t Be Afraid.” IV. When Things Don’t Turn out as We’d Planned.

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Today is the fourth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. When fears and hardships appear, we can trust that God will give us the faith needed to persevere. Just as the angel told Mary, Fear not!” when faced with bearing the Son of God, we are also told not to fear in our journey of faith because the Lord will give us strength needed.

SERMON: “Facing Our Challenges, Conquering Our Fears” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. The Wind and Other Distractions II. Resilience in the Face of Trauma III. God’s Command: “Don’t Be Afraid.” IV. When Things Don’t Turn out as We’d Planned.

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Today is the third of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. May you grow in faith through this series as we seek to be more like our Savior (Phil 2:5) who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

Sermon:  “Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. A Mission from God II. What it takes to Water-Walk III. Discerning God’s Call–: A. Identify Gifts and limitations B. Get Feedback C. Genuine Passion D. Prayer.

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Today is the third of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. May you grow in faith through this series as we seek to be more like our Savior (Phil 2:5) who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

Sermon:  “Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. A Mission from God II. What it takes to Water-Walk III. Discerning God’s Call–: A. Identify Gifts and limitations B. Get Feedback C. Genuine Passion D. Prayer.

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Today is the second of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. May you grow in faith through this series as we seek to be more like our Savior (Phil 2:5) who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

SERMON: “Live Life as if This Is All There Is and It Will Be”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. Two ways to look at a gift, talent or ability. II. The Lord of the gift. III. The Lord of the Settled Account. IV. The Lord of the Reward.

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Today is the second of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. May you grow in faith through this series as we seek to be more like our Savior (Phil 2:5) who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

SERMON: “Live Life as if This Is All There Is and It Will Be”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Sermon Outline: I. Two ways to look at a gift, talent or ability. II. The Lord of the gift. III. The Lord of the Settled Account. IV. The Lord of the Reward.

Click Here To view today’s bulletin

Today is the first of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

SERMON: “To Walk on Water, Get out of the Boat!”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Click Here To view today’s bulletin.

Today is the first of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get out of the Boat.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to step out in faith to grow in trust of Him. The story of Peter walking on water will be our key text during this series where we will explore how Jesus invites us to a faith journey that is not always comfortable but that is always more fulfilling than what we often settle for. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10).

SERMON: “To Walk on Water, Get out of the Boat!”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Day of Epiphany, on January 6th,  is also called the Gentile Christmas, since it is the day the Church celebrates the coming of the Magi to see Jesus. We quickly move from that first “epiphany” (which means, “a revelation of God”) to Jesus’ next epiphany at the Baptism of our Lord. There He was proclaimed the chosen Servant of the Lord, anointed with the Spirit for the rescue of God’s people and “to bring forth justice to the nations” (Is. 42:1). In the waters of the Jordan, He takes His place with sinners and takes all the sins of the world upon Himself. He undergoes the baptism of repentance in order to “fulfill all righteousness” for us (Matt. 3:15). He submits Himself to the curse of sin and death, in order to redeem us. We are baptized with a baptism like His, thereby dying and rising with Him, so that “we will also live with Him” (Rom. 6:8). Indeed, all of us who are baptized into Christ Jesus are anointed with His Spirit and named by His Father as beloved and well-pleasing sons and daughters.

SERMON: “God’s Love Cures People—Receive Yours Today!” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Day of Epiphany, on January 6th,  is also called the Gentile Christmas, since it is the day the Church celebrates the coming of the Magi to see Jesus. We quickly move from that first “epiphany” (which means, “a revelation of God”) to Jesus’ next epiphany at the Baptism of our Lord. There He was proclaimed the chosen Servant of the Lord, anointed with the Spirit for the rescue of God’s people and “to bring forth justice to the nations” (Is. 42:1). In the waters of the Jordan, He takes His place with sinners and takes all the sins of the world upon Himself. He undergoes the baptism of repentance in order to “fulfill all righteousness” for us (Matt. 3:15). He submits Himself to the curse of sin and death, in order to redeem us. We are baptized with a baptism like His, thereby dying and rising with Him, so that “we will also live with Him” (Rom. 6:8). Indeed, all of us who are baptized into Christ Jesus are anointed with His Spirit and named by His Father as beloved and well-pleasing sons and daughters.

SERMON: “God’s Love Cures People—Receive Yours Today!” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord Jesus “grew and became strong” (Luke 2:40); He “increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). As His body grew and developed, His mind also increased in knowledge and understanding. For as our brother in the flesh, that we might “have redemption through His blood” (Eph. 1:7), He lived by faith in the Word of His Father. Thus, He was catechized by His parents, who took Him up “to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover” (Luke 2:41); and when He was of age, He gave attention to the Holy Scriptures in His Father’s house (Luke 2:46, 49). Christ Jesus is still found in His Church, in “the Word of truth, the Gospel,” by which we are adopted by His Father and sealed with His Spirit (Eph. 1:5, 13).  Thus do we gain “an understanding mind” to go about our vocations, discerning “between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9). And so do we also go up to Jerusalem, to stand “before the ark of the covenant of the Lord” (1 Kings 3:15), that is, in the Holy Communion of His body and blood.

SERMON: “God Never Breaks His Resolution to Love You!”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord Jesus “grew and became strong” (Luke 2:40); He “increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). As His body grew and developed, His mind also increased in knowledge and understanding. For as our brother in the flesh, that we might “have redemption through His blood” (Eph. 1:7), He lived by faith in the Word of His Father. Thus, He was catechized by His parents, who took Him up “to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover” (Luke 2:41); and when He was of age, He gave attention to the Holy Scriptures in His Father’s house (Luke 2:46, 49). Christ Jesus is still found in His Church, in “the Word of truth, the Gospel,” by which we are adopted by His Father and sealed with His Spirit (Eph. 1:5, 13).  Thus do we gain “an understanding mind” to go about our vocations, discerning “between good and evil” (1 Kings 3:9). And so do we also go up to Jerusalem, to stand “before the ark of the covenant of the Lord” (1 Kings 3:15), that is, in the Holy Communion of His body and blood.

SERMON: “God Never Breaks His Resolution to Love You!”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Herod’s efforts to destroy the little Lord Jesus anticipate the cross for which He was born. In response to Herod’s edict, Joseph must “take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt” (Matt. 2:13). But the Lord does not abandon the holy family there. He brings about salvation for all people, just as He “had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son’” (Matt. 2:15). With might and strength, God accompanies His people causing “His glorious arm to go at the right hand of Moses” (Is. 63:12). Now through Jesus, even our afflictions are borne by Christ on the cross, “He redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them” (Is. 63:9). All of this is accomplished by God’s might so that we too are claimed as members of His family. For we “receive adoption as sons” in the only-begotten Son, Christ Jesus, even as He became like us by His conception and birth of the woman. Thus redeemed by Christ, no longer slaves of sin and death but beloved children and heirs of God, we pray in Jesus’ name: “Abba! Father!” (Gal. 4:4–6).

SERMON “Jesus Gives the Greatest Christmas Presence Ever!”     by Pastor Paul Wenz

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Herod’s efforts to destroy the little Lord Jesus anticipate the cross for which He was born. In response to Herod’s edict, Joseph must “take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt” (Matt. 2:13). But the Lord does not abandon the holy family there. He brings about salvation for all people, just as He “had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son’” (Matt. 2:15). With might and strength, God accompanies His people causing “His glorious arm to go at the right hand of Moses” (Is. 63:12). Now through Jesus, even our afflictions are borne by Christ on the cross, “He redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them” (Is. 63:9). All of this is accomplished by God’s might so that we too are claimed as members of His family. For we “receive adoption as sons” in the only-begotten Son, Christ Jesus, even as He became like us by His conception and birth of the woman. Thus redeemed by Christ, no longer slaves of sin and death but beloved children and heirs of God, we pray in Jesus’ name: “Abba! Father!” (Gal. 4:4–6).

SERMON “Jesus Gives the Greatest Christmas Presence Ever!”     by Pastor Paul Wenz

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Sometimes life requires the astonishing patience of Job. Like him, we are to rejoice in the midst of affliction, be grounded in repentance under the cross of Christ, hope relentlessly in His resurrection, that we might see “the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful” (James 5:11). In the promise of the Gospel, therefore, “be patient” and “establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:7, 8). Like St. John, the Baptist, whatever your own kind of prison or suffering may be, call upon Jesus and receive the strength of His Word from those He sends to you. For as “the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up,” so is the good news of Jesus preached to you, also (Matt. 11:5). He comes and restores the fortunes of Zion, His holy Church, so that “sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Is. 35:10).

SERMON: “In Christ We Have Victory for Every Challenge We Face”     by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Sometimes life requires the astonishing patience of Job. Like him, we are to rejoice in the midst of affliction, be grounded in repentance under the cross of Christ, hope relentlessly in His resurrection, that we might see “the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful” (James 5:11). In the promise of the Gospel, therefore, “be patient” and “establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:7, 8). Like St. John, the Baptist, whatever your own kind of prison or suffering may be, call upon Jesus and receive the strength of His Word from those He sends to you. For as “the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up,” so is the good news of Jesus preached to you, also (Matt. 11:5). He comes and restores the fortunes of Zion, His holy Church, so that “sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Is. 35:10).

SERMON: “In Christ We Have Victory for Every Challenge We Face”     by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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“John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent’” (Matt. 3:1–2). His preaching of repentance for the forgiveness of sins prepared people for the coming of Christ into the world. St. John’s work was historically complete with the incarnate Advent of Jesus; but his vital ministry continues in preaching Law and Gospel. The Son of God has come in the flesh, “a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots” (Is. 11:1), and continues to bear the fruits of righteousness. His good tree of the cross is “a signal for the peoples” (Is. 11:10), by which He calls the nations to repentance. “With the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips” (Is. 11:4), He slays the wicked and brings the dead to life, making sons of Abraham out of lifeless stones. So also the “root of Jesse” comes to us, “even he who arises to rule the Gentiles” (Rom. 15:12), that “we might have hope” and be filled “with all joy and peace in believing” (Rom. 15:4, 13).

SERMON: “God Meets Us at Our Point of Greatest Need”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Click Here To view today’s bulletin

“John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent’” (Matt. 3:1–2). His preaching of repentance for the forgiveness of sins prepared people for the coming of Christ into the world. St. John’s work was historically complete with the incarnate Advent of Jesus; but his vital ministry continues in preaching Law and Gospel. The Son of God has come in the flesh, “a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots” (Is. 11:1), and continues to bear the fruits of righteousness. His good tree of the cross is “a signal for the peoples” (Is. 11:10), by which He calls the nations to repentance. “With the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips” (Is. 11:4), He slays the wicked and brings the dead to life, making sons of Abraham out of lifeless stones. So also the “root of Jesse” comes to us, “even he who arises to rule the Gentiles” (Rom. 15:12), that “we might have hope” and be filled “with all joy and peace in believing” (Rom. 15:4, 13).

SERMON: “God Meets Us at Our Point of Greatest Need”   by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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Today we begin not just a season but a whole new Church Year. On the Sunday closest to St. Andrew’s Day (November 30), the Church enters the Advent, Christmas, Epiphany cycle.  Far more than a look back to the birth of Jesus Christ, Advent has a present focus in Christ’s coming to us now in Word and Sacrament.  There is also a forward focus in the Christ who has promised to return at the end of days and bring to completion what He began in His incarnation.  Between Christ’s first coming as the Son of Mary and His return in glory as Lord and Judge of all, we live in the dark days of a world with problems and conflicts where tests and trials face both the individual Christian and the Church.  In these dark times, it is even more important that we recognize the path of light we have in Christ and walk in His light.

SERMON: “There Is No Peace of any Kind Unless There Is First Peace with God”

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The Lord Jesus reigns in love among those who are baptized in His name. “They shall be mine,” He says, “and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him” (Mal. 3:17). Jesus’ service through crucifixion for sinful men anchors us in new life. In the proclamation of His Son, God makes His justice clear defining “the distinction between the righteous and the wicked” (Mal. 3:18). He truly is “the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38), who governs His Church with all authority in heaven and on earth. He has come into His Kingdom by His cross, and He graciously remembers us in Paradise. Therefore, do not weep for Him, but with repentant faith “weep for yourselves and for your children” (Luke 23:28). Then the mountains and hills of Jerusalem, His holy Church, shall cover you with His righteousness and peace. For He “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Col. 1:15). “All things were created through him and for him” (Col. 1:16), and “all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” bodily in Him, reconciling all things to Himself “by the blood of His cross” (Col. 1:19–20).

SERMON: “If You Risk Nothing, You Risk Everything!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

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The Lord Jesus reigns in love among those who are baptized in His name. “They shall be mine,” He says, “and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him” (Mal. 3:17). Jesus’ service through crucifixion for sinful men anchors us in new life. In the proclamation of His Son, God makes His justice clear defining “the distinction between the righteous and the wicked” (Mal. 3:18). He truly is “the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38), who governs His Church with all authority in heaven and on earth. He has come into His Kingdom by His cross, and He graciously remembers us in Paradise. Therefore, do not weep for Him, but with repentant faith “weep for yourselves and for your children” (Luke 23:28). Then the mountains and hills of Jerusalem, His holy Church, shall cover you with His righteousness and peace. For He “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Col. 1:15). “All things were created through him and for him” (Col. 1:16), and “all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” bodily in Him, reconciling all things to Himself “by the blood of His cross” (Col. 1:19–20).

SERMON: “If You Risk Nothing, You Risk Everything!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

The Lutheran Reformation recaptured the truth that any righteousness we might claim is a gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ. We come confessing our sins and are declared righteous only by the grace of God. In the Lord‘s Supper, God strengthens our faith to trust only in Christ‘s righteous sacrifice on our behalf. Scripture, not human tradition or other writings, is our only source for understanding how we stand righteous before God. God has not offered campaign slogans, promising to save us; in Christ all His promises have been kept.  So the statements by Luther and the Reformers that summarized the Bible’s teaching on this are more than slogans; they are truth:

We are saved by God’s Grace Alone, through Faith in Jesus Christ Alone.

 Scripture Alone (God’s Word) is the ultimate authority on God and our life with Him.

SERMON   “Saved by Grace through Faith Alone—More than a Slogan!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

The Lutheran Reformation recaptured the truth that any righteousness we might claim is a gift of God through faith in Jesus Christ. We come confessing our sins and are declared righteous only by the grace of God. In the Lord‘s Supper, God strengthens our faith to trust only in Christ‘s righteous sacrifice on our behalf. Scripture, not human tradition or other writings, is our only source for understanding how we stand righteous before God. God has not offered campaign slogans, promising to save us; in Christ all His promises have been kept.  So the statements by Luther and the Reformers that summarized the Bible’s teaching on this are more than slogans; they are truth:

We are saved by God’s Grace Alone, through Faith in Jesus Christ Alone.

 Scripture Alone (God’s Word) is the ultimate authority on God and our life with Him.

SERMON   “Saved by Grace through Faith Alone—More than a Slogan!”  by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Today we celebrate God’s work through The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. the official women’s auxiliary of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). It has as its “mission heart” thousands of volunteers who are daily dedicating their lives to making a difference in this world. In January 1998 the Board of Directors of the LWML also adopted the name: Lutheran Women in Mission. The LWML is made up of women who are finding avenues to use their God-given talents as they meet the challenges to share the Gospel message. It is composed of individual women and women’s groups within congregations of The LCMS, on campuses, in resident homes, or where ever ministry is happening. The LWML seeks to develop and maintain a greater mission consciousness among women of the LCMS through education, inspiration, and service. A major emphasis is the support of mission and ministry throughout the world by means of mite box offerings. These mite box offerings have funded tens of millions of dollars in mission grants since the organization’s inception in 1942.

SERMON   “Jesus is a Lamp to my feet and a Light to my Path”

Today we celebrate God’s work through The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. the official women’s auxiliary of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). It has as its “mission heart” thousands of volunteers who are daily dedicating their lives to making a difference in this world. In January 1998 the Board of Directors of the LWML also adopted the name: Lutheran Women in Mission. The LWML is made up of women who are finding avenues to use their God-given talents as they meet the challenges to share the Gospel message. It is composed of individual women and women’s groups within congregations of The LCMS, on campuses, in resident homes, or where ever ministry is happening. The LWML seeks to develop and maintain a greater mission consciousness among women of the LCMS through education, inspiration, and service. A major emphasis is the support of mission and ministry throughout the world by means of mite box offerings. These mite box offerings have funded tens of millions of dollars in mission grants since the organization’s inception in 1942.

SERMON   “Jesus is a Lamp to my feet and a Light to my Path”

Today is the last of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Living with a Well-Ordered Heart,” which focuses on persevering in the faith in good times and bad times.

SERMON   “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life” (Prov. 4:23) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. The Illusion of a Balanced Life. II. Cultivating a Well-ordered Heart. III. The Value of Suffering with God. III. Writing our Lives Together with God.

Today is the last of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Living with a Well-Ordered Heart,” which focuses on persevering in the faith in good times and bad times.

SERMON   “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life” (Prov. 4:23) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. The Illusion of a Balanced Life. II. Cultivating a Well-ordered Heart. III. The Value of Suffering with God. III. Writing our Lives Together with God.

Today is the fifth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Practicing Servanthood, Finding Freedom,” which focuses on becoming free from the sin of pride so we can serve God and others.

SERMON   “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Prov 16:18) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. The Messiah Complex—Symptom of Pride. II. The Ministries of Servanthood. III. Approval Addiction. III. The Discipline of Secrecy

Today is the fifth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Practicing Servanthood, Finding Freedom,” which focuses on becoming free from the sin of pride so we can serve God and others.

SERMON   “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Prov 16:18) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. The Messiah Complex—Symptom of Pride. II. The Ministries of Servanthood. III. Approval Addiction. III. The Discipline of Secrecy

Today is the fourth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Meditating on Scripture and Seeking Guidance,” which focuses on pursuing “Gods Kingdom and His righteousness” and in doing so, all other things we need will be given to us as well (Matt 6:33).

SERMON “ God’s Word is a Lamp to My Feet and a Light for My Path”  (Ps 119:105) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. Obstacles to Transformation (Passivity and Double Mindedness). II. “Washing” our Minds & Hearts with Scripture.  III. How to Seek God’s Guidance

Today is the fourth of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant and satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Meditating on Scripture and Seeking Guidance,” which focuses on pursuing “Gods Kingdom and His righteousness” and in doing so, all other things we need will be given to us as well (Matt 6:33).

SERMON “ God’s Word is a Lamp to My Feet and a Light for My Path”  (Ps 119:105) by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Notes: I. Obstacles to Transformation (Passivity and Double Mindedness). II. “Washing” our Minds & Hearts with Scripture.  III. How to Seek God’s Guidance

Today is the third of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Praying and Confessing,” which focuses on the power of Christian prayer and the need to seek and give forgiveness.

SERMON “The Prayer of a Righteous Man Is Powerful and Effective (James 5:16)” by Pastor Paul Wenz

Notes: I. The Power of Prayer. II. The “Art” of Simple Prayer. III. Preparing Your Heart through Confession. IV. A New Feeling—from the Perspective of Those Who Hurt.

Today is the third of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. May this series help you to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Praying and Confessing,” which focuses on the power of Christian prayer and the need to seek and give forgiveness.

SERMON “The Prayer of a Righteous Man Is Powerful and Effective (James 5:16)” by Pastor Paul Wenz

Notes: I. The Power of Prayer. II. The “Art” of Simple Prayer. III. Preparing Your Heart through Confession. IV. A New Feeling—from the Perspective of Those Who Hurt.

Today is the second of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Slowing Down and Celebrating,” which reminds us that Jesus meets us in the present for us to enjoy His blessings in our lives, if we will slow down enough to see them.

SERMON “Daily Prayers Will Diminish Your Cares”  by Pastor Paul Wenz

 Notes: I. Do you have “Hurry Sickness?” II. The discipline of slowing.  III. Celebrating Life’s Little Moments of Joy.  IV. The Connection between God and Joy.

Today is the second of six sermons in our series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “Slowing Down and Celebrating,” which reminds us that Jesus meets us in the present for us to enjoy His blessings in our lives, if we will slow down enough to see them.

SERMON “Daily Prayers Will Diminish Your Cares”  by Pastor Paul Wenz

 Notes: I. Do you have “Hurry Sickness?” II. The discipline of slowing.  III. Celebrating Life’s Little Moments of Joy.  IV. The Connection between God and Joy.

Today begins our six week sermon series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “It’s Morphing Time!” referring to God’s call for us to morph, or transform our lives with the help of the Holy Spirit to look more like Christ’s (Phil 2:5).

SERMON “Change Is Inevitable; Growth Is Optional!” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Today begins our six week sermon series based on John Ortberg’s book, “The Life You’ve Always Wanted.”  We will explore Scripture together in order to learn how God leads us to grow in our faith. Often people are not satisfied with their lives, but Jesus has promised, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b NKJV). This abundant, full, rich, satisfying life is what Jesus wants for each one of us. When we follow our own wills, we are not following life, but the disappointing, sinful promises of the evil one, that ultimately lead to death. It is my prayer for you today and through this series to “grow up into…Christ” (Eph 4:15), who is our Savior and who has prepared “good works…in advance for us to do!” (Eph 2:10). This week’s theme is: “It’s Morphing Time!” referring to God’s call for us to morph, or transform our lives with the help of the Holy Spirit to look more like Christ’s (Phil 2:5).

SERMON “Change Is Inevitable; Growth Is Optional!” by Pastor Paul Wenz.

Today is the observance of the Martyrdom of John the Baptist, which occurred when Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch of Galilee under the Romans, beheaded John the Baptist at the wish of his step-daughter, Salome, who brought it on a platter to her mother Herodias (Mark 6:17-28). Herodias wanted to silence John for proclaiming that her marriage to Herod (after divorcing his brother to marry him) was against God’s laws (Lev. 18:16). Thus John the Baptist was the first martyr of the New Testament. He stood up against both religious and secular rulers who violated God’s law in order to prepare the way for the Messiah, Jesus Christ. We remember John’s sacrifice in light of the greatest sacrifice of all—Jesus’ death for our sins on the cross!

SERMON  “Sanctified Afflictions Are Spiritual Promotions” by Pastor Paul Wenz

Click here if you would like to read today’s brochure as you listen.

Today is the observance of the Martyrdom of John the Baptist, which occurred when Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch of Galilee under the Romans, beheaded John the Baptist at the wish of his step-daughter, Salome, who brought it on a platter to her mother Herodias (Mark 6:17-28). Herodias wanted to silence John for proclaiming that her marriage to Herod (after divorcing his brother to marry him) was against God’s laws (Lev. 18:16). Thus John the Baptist was the first martyr of the New Testament. He stood up against both religious and secular rulers who violated God’s law in order to prepare the way for the Messiah, Jesus Christ. We remember John’s sacrifice in light of the greatest sacrifice of all—Jesus’ death for our sins on the cross!

SERMON  “Sanctified Afflictions Are Spiritual Promotions” by Pastor Paul Wenz.