When we listen to the wisdom of God’s Word about our life together in the City of Man, we will find that a Christian response to politics involves choosing men of proven capabilities who fear God, who have earned the trust of their neighbors and who hate corruption – so that we may live peaceful, godly lives and freely spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.
1. God raises up those who rule in justice and the fear of God.
a. The last words of King David:
b. What does God require of us? Micah 6:8
2. God raises up those who tremble at His Word
a. Capable men: fearing God, earning trust, hating corruption
b. God’s solution to original sin: local government: Exodus 18:21
3. God raises up the righteous so His people may rejoice
a. God governs so that all may be rescued from sin and death
b. People rejoice when they learn to walk in God’s paths
Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost
A Christian Response to Politics
August 30, 2020 • Pastor Paul Becker
Second Sunday of Easter
April 7, 2024 • Pastor Paul Becker • John 20:21–23
To demonstrate that with God all things are possible, Jesus sends us into the world as He was sent, with divine peace, with the Holy Spirit and with the forgiveness of sins. 1. We are sent into the world with divine peace a. Not a false peace that “heals the wound of My people lightly” b. The Prince of Peace makes us peacemakers in a strife-torn world 2. We are sent into the world with the Holy Spirit, the Comforter a. By saturating in the means of grace, not of ourselves b. By appreciating the fruits and gifts of the Spirit 3. We are sent into the world with the forgiveness of sins a. Daily in the Lord’s Prayer / Luther’s evening prayer b. For our enemies and persecutors, bless those who curse
Palm Sunday
March 24, 2024 • Pastor Paul Becker • Philippians 2:7–8
As Jesus emptied and humbled Himself, becoming like us in every way except sin, He resisted the devil’s pride, breaking the power of death on the cross. 1. Jesus emptied and humbled Himself for us a. He did not cling to His divine privileges b. He manifests the power of humility 2. Jesus became like us in every way except sin a. The joys and sorrows, trials and temptations b. Being subject to suffering and death 3. Jesus resisted the devil’s pride / broke the power of death a. God resists the proud/gives grace to the humble b. He who keeps My Word shall not see death forever