Just as Jesus marks the line of division for history—B.C. (“Before Christ”) and A.D. (“Anno Domini” or “Year of our Lord”) — so too does He mark the line of division for salvation. Those found in Him will rise with Him by baptism (Romans 6:1-8) through faith in the only Name that saves (Acts 4:12). Those found outside of Christ and His body, the Church, will be shut out (Revelation 22:15), having fallen from grace (Galatians 5:4). But it’s not too late! The Day of Grace, having dawned in the birth of Christ, still is shining today, calling all people to His mercy.
To Rise or Fall in Zion
The First Sunday after Christmas
December 31, 2023 • Pastor Johnson • Isaiah 11:1–5, Psalm 89:1–8, Galatians 4:1–7, Luke 2:33–40
More from
Sermons
For This Is the Will of God
April 21, 2024 • Pastor Gjerde • Isaiah 40:25–31, Psalm 147:1–11, 1 Peter 2:11–20, John 16:16–22
For a little while, the disciples did not see the Lord. When they saw Him again on that first day of the week, they rejoiced with a joy the world could not take away. Their joy is ours on this day. We also cannot see the Lord as we see each other, for we see Him even more clearly! In the proclamation of His Word and the breaking of the bread, He makes Himself known to us with crystal clarity as the font of all mercy and kindness for sinners, welcoming them into the kingdom of God.
Sheep in Wolve's Clothing
April 14, 2024 • Pastor Johnson • Ezekiel 34:11–16, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:21–25, John 10:11–16
Who are the “other sheep” to which Jesus refers in today’s Gospel? We know that Jesus had previously warned about false prophets, men who were likened to “ferocious wolves” in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15). And prior to sending out the Twelve Apostles, a foretaste of later missionary ventures, Jesus likened their calling as being sent out “like sheep among wolves” (Matthew 10:16). If Jesus has come to reconcile all sinners to the Father by his blood and resurrection, could some of those very “wolves,” in fact, be “sheep”?
Witnesses Aplenty
April 7, 2024 • Pastor Gjerde • 1 John 5:4–10, John 20:19–31, Ezekiel 37:1–14, Psalm 33
Someone once described the difference between a dead and living person in this way: a living person can still surprise us. Jesus surprised the disciples following His death, confirming the truth of His resurrection. Still today He surprises the world, forgiving sins where the world would hold a grudge, reconciling enemies, giving hope to the dying, comforting the grieving, unleashing charity and acts of love, and nourishing countless souls in faith. Alleluia! Christ is risen!