FAITH LUTHERAN ALIEN RIGHTEOUSNESS SERMONS

"Count the Stars if You Are Able": Abram, Job and the Promise

In this sermon, we delve into a pivotal moment in the Old Testament, exploring the profound encounter between Yahweh and Abraham. We examine the common misinterpretations of faith and highlight the transformational nature of God's promise that foretold Abram's descendants would be as numerous as, and like, the stars. Contrary to popular belief, this moment was less about Abram's unfaltering faith and more about the creative work of the Lord that creates belief.
Through examining the context of Abram's time and the divine reprimand that mirrors God's interaction with Job, we gain a deeper understanding of the text. This narrative showcases the miraculous power of God's word—His declaration of promises that seem impossible to human perception. The sermon emphasizes that true faith is not a human work but a gift from God, reconciling us with His righteousness.
Ultimately, the message reminds us that salvation and faith are divine gifts, exemplifying that through our own reason and strength, belief is unattainable, but He creates faith in Christ through Word and Sacrament. As heirs to Abram's promise, we are encouraged to live not for self, but for the profound love and service towards our neighbors, reflecting Christ who is both our shield and our reward.

The Triune God's Majesty and Authority

Explore the majesty and authority of the Triune God through reflections on Psalm 29 and Isaiah 6. This episode delves into God's powerful presence and authority over creation, chaos, and evil. Discover how this divine power and the mysterious nature of the Trinity are revealed in scripture and worship. Learn how believers are invited to participate in God's perfect order and salvation plan accomplished by Christ. Understand the significance of the Eucharist as an ongoing experience of Isaiah's vision of the heaveny temple and how God's cosmic presence breaks into our world to offer strength and peace in Christ's Person and Work.

Pentecost: The Reversal of Babel and the Gathering of Humanity

In this sermon, we delve into the significance of Pentecost as narrated in Genesis and Acts, celebrating it as a monumental day in biblical history. By examining the events of Babel and the subsequent scattering of humanity, we uncover how Pentecost serves as a divine reversal, gathering people into the Spirit of Christ. The sermon highlights the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and Jesus' mission – bringing nations back together and establishing unity in Him.
This Pentecost marks not just a historical moment but an ongoing invitation for modern believers to participate in God’s new creation. The sermon emphasizes the great exchange achieved through Christ, transforming us into temple bricks of this cosmic city. As believers, we are encouraged to live our vocations with the confidence of our salvation in Jesus, continually contributing to the world’s spiritual recreation.

Ascending Triumph: The God of Storms Rises and Returns

Explore the powerful narrative of ascension through the juxtaposition of Elijah and Jesus, where biblical prophecies and divine fulfillment intertwine. Starting with a demonstration of Yahweh's sovereignty over false gods, the episode delves into the transitions of power from Elijah to Elisha, fulfilled by the actions of Christ. Jesus, the ultimate storm God, departs not in judgment but victorious, leaving His followers empowered and equipped for the ongoing spiritual battle until His return.
The sermon illustrates the continuity of God's plan and the fulfillment of scripture with Christ as the central figure. As He ascends, leaving His church with a double portion of the Spirit’s power, believers are called to fight the same spiritual battles with renewed strength through Word and Sacrament.
Join us as we reflect upon our place in this epic narrative, embracing our roles today and awaiting our Lord's glorious return.

"Rebellion and Redemption: Aaron, Miriam & the Serpent"

In this thought-provoking sermon, we delve into a familiar Old Testament narrative from Numbers 21, where the Israelites grumble against Yahweh, leading to a deadly encounter with fiery serpents. The sermon explores the deeper connection of this event to the entire narrative of Numbers, highlighting human rebellion and the asserting of God-given authority.
The story of Moses, the bronze serpent, and Israel's journey reflects a recurring theme of defiance against divine appointments, drawing parallels to the Garden of Eden and the consequences of overreaching boundaries. We examine the significance of these events, understanding them as prefiguring of Christ's ultimate act of salvation.
As we relate these ancient accounts to the modern world, we are reminded of the enduring challenge of adhering to God's word and the divine offices established for humankind. This sermon calls us to recognize our own roles and offices, taking on the responsibilities given by God to transform our world through faith in Jesus, who overcame sin and brought eternal victory.

"The Dread and Hope of Emmanuel: Unveiling Isaiah's Prophecy"

Join us as we delve into an in-depth exploration of Isaiah chapter 12, shedding light on the profound connections with earlier chapters. Discover the dual nature of Jesus as both a bringer of judgment and salvation. This sermon carefully examines the prophecies surrounding the birth of Emmanuel, illustrating the tension between dread and hope in the promise of a Messiah. Gain a deeper understanding of how these ancient texts relate to the transformative work of Jesus today, offering believers both challenge and comfort in their spiritual journey.

"Journey Through the Valley: Christ's Eternal Path of Suffering and Triumph"

In this episode, we delve into the profound idea of Jesus Christ's enduring and encompassing role in the suffering of humanity, as explored through the book of Lamentations. We highlight the narrative of Jesus not just as the sacrificial lamb on the cross, but as the trailblazer through the valleys of human suffering throughout history. Christ's suffering paves the path for new creation and eternal joy, uniting our sufferings with His divine journey.Through a deep exploration of scriptural passages, particularly from Lamentations, we address the misconception of seemingly solitary suffering, asserting the constant presence of Christ in all our trials. The episode underscores the understanding that every Christian's suffering is a meaningful component of God's radiant eternal plan, with Jesus' sacrifice turning curses into blessings. Join us as we explore the steadfast love of the Lord, illuminating the hope and transformation embedded in every trial.

The Good Shepherd Leads Us into and through Dark Places

In this sermon, delve into the profound teachings of Psalm 23 and the gospel text, exploring Jesus as the Good Shepherd who leads us through the darkest valleys. Discover how Christ's guidance through paths of suffering and death is the singular path of righteousness, intended for our eternal good and His glory. Embrace the paradox of the theology of the cross, where apparent horrors transform into profound victories, and understand the true source of comfort in the divine presence and protection of the Good Shepherd. Reflect on the ongoing journey Christ walks with us, leading and guarding us through life's trials toward the ultimate fulfillment and joy at the mountain of the Lord at recreation.

"From Corruption to Redemption: The Valley of Dry Bones"

In this enlightening sermon, we explore the profound message in the Old Testament reading from Ezekiel 37. Journey with us through the Valley of Dry Bones, a powerful imagery depicting corruption, decay, and the promise of redemption. Discover how the biblical world viewed the catastrophic effects of the Fall, where the pervasive impurity threatened the very relationship between humanity and God. Yet, through Ezekiel's vision, hope arises as the message of Jesus Christ enters the scene.Experience the profound transformation as we delve into the role of the Old Testament purity laws and the eventual incarnation of Jesus, who enters into our corrupted world to break the cycle of sin and death. Witness how Jesus' victory in the resurrection reconstitutes the dead and brings forth the promise of life eternal.This sermon unpacks the cosmic implications of Christ's work, demonstrating how Jesus makes the corrupt holy and purifies creation itself. With a fresh perspective on the Parable of the Good Samaritan, the liberation from the valley of death is revealed, leading believers to eternal glory and dominion over the new creation.

Recreation Begins: The Lenten Warrior's Triumph

Welcome to a momentous episode that delves into the profound truths of the Lenten warrior's triumph over all eternal dangers. Discover how Jesus, the Word of all creation, provides images signaling that the story is not yet over but unfolding in the most glorious way.
Explore the Exodus wanderings as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where the angel of the Lord took judgment upon himself. Understand how Moses striking the rock foreshadows Jesus being pierced, bringing forth salvation and eternal life from His side.
Join the journey from Good Friday to Easter, witnessing the cosmic recreation as the rock of the tomb is split, ushering in a new dawn of glorified, perfect life. Reflect on the transformative power this has on humanity, uniting us with Jesus through His church and sacraments.
Be inspired by the imagery of the garden as Jesus, seen as the new Adam, redeems the fallen world. Experience the hope and assurance that death is defeated, calling us to participate in the ongoing recreation through our vocations and sufferings, advancing the new creation each day.