2001 Fall - Higher Things Magazine (with Bible Studies)

L U T H E R A N

desires, all good counsels, all just works, give to us, your servants, that peace which the world cannot give, that our

T O

B E

hearts may be set to obey your

D A R E

Higher Things

es d av lose g W Enc kin on Ma trati gis Re O God, from whom come all holy

commandments also that we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may live in peace and quietness; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

w w w. h i g h e r t h i n g s . o r g / FA L L / 2001

from

the

editor-in-chief “My tears have been my food day and night, while all day long they say to me,‘Where now is your God?’” (Psalm 42:3) In the midst of tragedy and pain, you may be asking “Where is God?”The answer is that He is on the cross, suffering our death so that in Him we may have life. God is the only one who can understand our suffering and pain, for He suffered all of it and more under Pontius Pilate, as we confess in the creed. This makes us who we are. Jesus’ suffering means that God understands weakness and fear. He will see us through this to the very end, no matter what that end may be.

The terrorist attacks on our country have reminded us that it comes down to life and death for us all. We have the words of eternal life from God Himself, and He has given us our identity in the waters of Holy Baptism. Because we died with Him in Baptism (Romans 6:1-4), we have confidence that we will also rise with Him to eternal life. That makes us who we are as God’s children.

In this issue of Higher Things, the topic of Christian and Lutheran identity is addressed. What does it mean to be a Lutheran? How does this shape who I am in the 21st century? Do Lutherans believe differently than other Christians? How does this change the music I listen to, the schools I attend, or even the friends I have?

H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 2

In this issue, you will read about: • Where Are You, God? The Rev. Scott Stiegemeyer asks and answers this question as we struggle to understand God in the face of terrorist attacks.

• The Lutheran Difference. The Rev. Prof.

Lawrence Rast, Jr., reflects on his role as a parish pastor in Tennessee in the midst of an anti-Lutheran environment.

• Dare To Be Lutheran On Campus. The Rev. Marcus Zill addresses the challenges that young Lutherans face as they go off to college for the first time.

•

•

•

•

An Inside-Out View Of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). Lori Lewis recounts her journey into the world of CCM and how the Small Catechism brought her back home to Lutheranism.

What Is A Lutheran? Jello, Confirmation And The Catechism.

The Rev. David Petersen describes the vows that are made at confirmation, and how the Catechism serves as a road map to help explain faith to others.

Second-Class Citizens. Dr. Gene Edward Veith tells how Lutherans are not secondclass Christians, but citizens of God’s heavenly kingdom.

The Summit. Adriane Dorr shows how she defended the Christian doctrine of Holy Baptism at summer camp.

In this issue of Higher Things, we are introducing a new service. If you go to our website at www.higherthings.org, you will find bible studies available based on each article in this magazine, as well as articles from the first issue.

Finally, a registration form for the youth conference, Making Waves is included.

Sponsored by Higher Things Inc., the conference is open to all youth and will be held July 8-12, 2002 in Duluth, Minnesota.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Higher Things!

The Rev. Todd Peperkorn Editor-in-Chief Higher Things: Dare to Be Lutheran Peperkorn@higherthings.org

T A B L E

O F

CONTENTS

FEATURES 5 Resting in Christ: Why the Reformed think Lutherans are second-class Christians.

By Dr. Gene Edward Veith Dean of Arts and Sciences, Concordia University, Mequon, Wisconsin.

Lutherans are not second-class Christians, but citizens of God’s heavenly kingdom.

6

Where are you God? By the Rev. Scott Stiegemeyer Pastor at Concordia Lutheran Church, Brentwood, Pennsylvania

The question “Where are you God?” is asked and then answered as we struggle to understand God in the face of recent terrorist attacks.

8

Dare to be Lutheran on Campus By the Rev. Marcus Zill Pastor at St. Andrew Lutheran Church and Campus Center, Laramie, Wyoming

A look at the challenges young Lutherans face when they go off to college for the first time.

14 An Inside-Out View of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)

By Lori Lewis

Volume 1/Number 2 Fall 2001 Editor-in-Chief REV. TODD PEPERKORN Managing Editor PAM KNEPPER

Assistant Editor JULIE STIEGEMEYER

Editorial Associates REV. DAVID PETERSEN REV. JAMES WINSOR Art Director STEVE BLAKEY

Business Manager LYNN FREDERICKSEN

HIGHER THINGS, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS President REV. DANIEL Vice President REV. TODD

Secretary REV. SCOTT

WOODRING

PEPERKORN

STIEGEMEYER

Treasurer LYNN FREDERICKSEN

By Adriane Dorr

REV. KLEMET PREUS REV. MARCUS ZILL SANDRA OSTAPOWICH DR. GENE EDWARD VEITH MOLLIE ZIEGLER

High school student, Marcus, Iowa.

HigherThings Online

Freelance writer and homemaker, San Diego, California

Read about Lori Lewis’ journey into the world of CCM and how she rediscovered the Lutheran Church.

16 The Summit How would you defend the Christian doctrine of Holy Baptism at summer camp? Adriane Dorr shows us how she did it.

18 The Lutheran Difference By the Rev. Prof. Lawrence R. Rast, Jr. Professor of Church History, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana

See how Rev. Rast dealt with being a parish pastor in Tennessee in the midst of an anti-Lutheran environment.

20 Left Behind By the Rev. Klemet Preus Pastor at Glory of Christ Lutheran Church, Plymouth, Minnesota

Rev. Preus critiques the popular Left Behind book series and shows that its message should not be trusted.

22 What Is A Lutheran? Jello, Confirmation and the Catechism By the Rev. David Petersen Pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana

Rev. Petersen describes the vows that are made at confirmation, and how the Catechism serves as a road map to help explain faith to others.

Cover Photo: Destruction of the World Trader Center Towers, New York City, New York, September 11, 2001. AP Photo.

Cover Prayer: Collect for Peace. Taken from Lutheran Worship, pg. 234.

Copyright 1982. Concordia Publishing House.

HIGHER THINGS

HigherThings

ONLINE

Higher Things is now online! Go to www.higherthings.org and you will find bible studies based on each article, as well as resources and items of interest for teens and youth leaders alike.

Webmaster SEM. BRIAN

THORSEN

Bible Studies Editor REV. ERIK ROTTMANN Higher Things Magazine is published quarterly by Higher Things Inc., 2026 22nd Ave., Kenosha, WI 53140. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the editorin-chief of Higher Things Magazine.

Copyright 2001. Printed in the United States. Postage paid at Fort Wayne, Indiana. For subscription information, write to: Higher Things Magazine, P.O. Box 580111, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158-8011 or e-mail to Subscriptions@higherthings.org.

Higher Things Magazine is mailed to most pastors and congregations of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod in the United States and Canada. For general information about Higher Things, Inc., please email info@higherthings.org.

F A L L 2 0 0 1 __ 3

Feedback letters to the

editor

Higher Things magazine welcomes letters from our readers. Please send your comments to: Higher Things magazine P.O. Box 580111 Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158-8011 feedback@higherthings.org

Just wanted to send a note letting you know how much I enjoyed your new magazine, Higher Things. Unashamedly Lutheran!! I like that! Keep up the good work. I will be sharing it with my two sons who are in high school and a daughter who is in middle school. If they like it as much as I did, I will be sure to let you know.

Rev. Steve Turner H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 4

Awesome! The content of the magazine is phenomenal. I’ll be having my youth read the first issue as soon as possible. Nice work!

Rick Anderegg Highest kudos for Higher Things. The content and presentation are stellar.

Rev. Ed Grimenstein

Higher Things was a great read. I commend and want to encourage you, the staff, and writers to keep up the good work.

Billy Hofman I just received the first issue of Higher Things. I’d like to say a few things I noticed about it.

First of all, I do not appreciate having to rotate the entire magazine simply to read an article. (see p. 4-5, 11) If we want to be trendy, we can always advertise for Abercrombie and Fitch.

Second, while the content is well worth reading, I would like to see longer articles.The little one-pagers simply don’t adequately address the issues.

On the other hand, this magazine does address topics that need to be discussed. I enjoyed reading Rev. Peperkorn’s introductory letter, as well as Clouds and Gutters by Rev. Winsor.

J. Andrew H. Wilson I thought that the articles were very well written. All in all, I really liked Higher Things. You might think about putting in a section for people to ask questions and have them answered.

Discussion articles are always good.

Steph Morris I just finished reading the first issue of Higher Things. The content is outstanding, and the format is very good. I thoroughly enjoyed every article. The article

by Rev. Winsor deserves an award. My own faith was fed. Higher Things is and will be an excellent evangelism resource. Many blessings to you, the editors and writers, and to your readers, whom I hope will be many.

George Strieter

Note: The Lutheran Heritage Foundation (LHF) is helping to distribute Higher Things internationally. The following letter is part of that mission.

Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. While I was traveling on the train, the person next to me, an American, was reading a Christian magazine called Higher Things.

Quickly I borrowed it from him and started reading. I praise and thank God for a magazine of real quality that reaches out to our youth. But before I go any further, I would like to share with you a little about me.

My name is Rohan Fernando. I am a pastor in Sri-Lanka. At one time, I had a son, but I did not have the time to talk with him or listen to him because of my work schedule. One day I got a phone call saying that my son had jumped off a train and killed himself. This was the turning point in my life. I resigned from my job and started a ministry in reaching out to other youth. Sri-Lanka has the highest suicide rate in the world and many of our youth are involved in drugs, pornography, contract killing, child abuse and in prison for killing their parents.

Currently, there are about 1000 youth in my ministry, with many from broken homes. We read to them about Jesus, His love for us and the hope that we have in Him. It’s a blessing to see these young people’s lives changed by the power of the Risen Lord. We have also been teaching them about the great reformer and evangelist Martin Luther, but we need additional resources to teach these young people.

Please send copies of Higher Things magazine to us, so that it can be kept in our library to be read by our youth.

Please invite your youth to send greetings to our youth.

Pastor Rohan Fernando Nugegoda, Sri-Lanka

you’re a Lutheran, but are you a Christian?” “That’s nice that you were baptized as a baby, but when did you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and personal savior?”

Lutherans get this sort of thing all the time from their fundamentalist friends.

When they get to know us a little better and see that we hold to the Bible more fiercely than they do, even, they will say,“Well, you Lutherans are strong in doctrine, but weak in morals.” They are bothered at the way Lutherans are not quite so uptight as they are about whether things are right or wrong and what the Christian is supposed to do in every situation.They are annoyed especially at the Lutheran easy-going attitude towards practices that are not forbidden in Scripture, but which loom large in the fundamentalist lifestyle (such as drinking, smoking, dancing, and the like).

Lutherans understand Christianity––and their lives––in terms of Law and Gospel; the Reformed get it turned around:first comes the Gospel and then comes the Law. After you become a Christian then you are under the Law and are expected to follow it to the letter. Of course, this emphasis on human action tends to reduce the Gospel to Law, a matter of what you have to do to be saved (make a decision to accept Jesus into your heart).This contrasts with the Lutheran understanding that salvation is what happens to us through the grace of God, which comes by means of Word and Sacrament. It isn’t that you have to accept Jesus; the good news is that Jesus accepts you. He has saved you not by your will, but by His, not by any subjective soul-wrenching on your part, but by dying on a cross and rising from the dead. By bringing you onto His cross in Baptism and coming to you in the most intimate way in the Lord’s Supper— more objective facts— Christ gives you forgiveness of your sins. Now you can live in Christian freedom, not wanting to do the bad things, but living in the confidence of God’s grace.

The Reformed assumption that Lutherans are second-class Christians –– or not Christians at all––goes way back into American history. The Lutherans then were immigrants, like Hispanics and Asians today, coming from exotic places like Germany and Scandinavia into a culture dominated by Puritan Protestants. The issue that got Lutherans in trouble was how they kept the Sabbath.

For the Puritans, the Sabbath meant working hard not to do any work.

Moreover, honoring the

“OK,

Resting inChrist

Sabbath meant not only going to church, but not doing any kind of frivolous “worldly” activity. Sundays were to be a day of solemn meditation, full of rules and Old-Testament-like strictness.

But here these Lutherans were, who, after going to church, spent Sunday afternoons going to concerts, playing sports, and even (shudder) going out with their families to something those Germans called beer gardens.

That kind of Sabbath-breaking scandalized the mainstream American Protestants. Having fun on the Sabbath? Blasphemy!

This was even worse than the other things those Lutherans did, such as having Christmas trees. (When one of the founding fathers of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, Rev. Heinrich Christian Schwan, introduced the custom by putting a Christmas tree in his church, the Calvinists accused us of rank paganism, of idolatry, of worshipping trees!)

Before long, though, even the Reformed were setting up Christmas trees,and soon the Lutheran way of keeping the Sabbath caught on throughout American culture.The notion that leisure and recreation are good things contributed to the rise of professional sports, orchestras, popular music, and on and on.

But the point is, those early Lutherans––with their music, games,and Biergartens—were keeping the Sabbath. Keeping the Sabbath day holy meant, in the words of the Catechism, gladly hearing and learning God’s Word. The Sabbath is not Law, as the Puritans made it, but Gospel. Not working on the Sabbath is not a stringent list of restrictions; rather, the Biblical notion of the Sabbath rest signifies our condition under the grace of God. “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work” (Hebrews 4:9-10). Since we are not saved by our works, we rest in Christ.

Furthermore, as was said

by Jesus Himself––who was assailed by the Pharisees for allegedly breaking their Sabbath legalisms—“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). The day set aside for hearing the Gospel is God’s gift, along with the

By Dr. Gene Edward Veith faith that it proclaims, as are the innocent pleasures and recreations that we are now F free to enjoy.

A L Dr. Gene Edward Veith is L Dean of Arts and Sciences at Concordia University, 2 0 Wisconsin. He is a member of 0 the Board of Directors of 1 Higher Things. __

?

Why the Reformed think Lutherans are second-class Christians

5

Most of us

H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 6

How young Christians should understand the terrorist attacks on America

will always remember what we were doing on September 11, 2001...the day terrorists attacked New York City and the Pentagon. The scene has been played over and over again of skyscrapers on fire and people running for cover. If this were a summer action movie, it would be a blockbuster.

But this is no Hollywood flick. It’s for real.

Many people are wondering how God could allow this to happen.

Where was He that day? Was He sleeping late or just not paying attention? It’s hard for us to understand how this could be God’s will.

But let's be very clear...God hates death. He is opposed to those who cause the death of precious men, women and children. But since we believe the Triune God is all powerful, we must admit that none of this could have happened unless He allowed it. Why?

AP Photo

Where are you, GOD?

AP Photo

AP Photo

One thing to remember is that God permits things like this to happen to get our attention and call us to repentance. We could even say, as Martin Luther once said, "The devil is God’s devil." Even when the devil is doing his worst, God is still active to bring about His final purpose.

Here’s an illustration. A very rare condition exists that causes a person’s nerve endings to be insensitive to pain. You might think that would be cool to have a condition like this, but people who have this condition almost never live to reach adulthood. Why? They endlessly bump and bruise and damage their bodies, oblivious to the harm they're causing until finally their injuries are so severe that they lead to death. You see, pain serves a necessary purpose in this fallen world. It provides a warning that something is wrong. It alerts you to trouble, so that you stop what you’re doing and seek help.

We are a world full of pain and death. It’s unfortunate that often it takes a terrible tragedy to wake people up to their need for God. We are no more helpless, pitiful, sinful and needy now than we were before this tragedy happened.

But the pain that our nation is experiencing has made us realize that something is very wrong.

Everything is not OK. Simply put, we need God because we cannot make it by ourselves.

God's kindness has already become evident with sympathetic worshippers in church, and with supplies and blood being sent to those in need. The kindness of God will become even more clear in the days ahead as men and women lay down their lives for one another.

These are only a glimpse of God’s kindness that we can’t truly understand apart from the cross. God’s greatest kindness was shown "when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6 NKJV). This means Christ died for sinners, like you and me. Jesus Christ is the solution for man’s warring madness.

He is the antidote for death. God used angry, self-righteous Jews and Gentiles to falsely arrest, torture and murder His Son, and out of that criminal act came salvation for us all. He allowed Himself to be brutalized and humiliated to make things right. By dying on the cross for us, Jesus paid the penalty for all sins. That’s right. Every insulting remark, hateful thought and act of terror can be absolved.

If God can use the devil to kill His Son and bring about the salvation of the world, He can use these terrorist attacks to draw us back to His loving embrace. That is the only way Christians can understand the recent terrorist attacks and find peace.

The Rev. Scott Stiegemeyer is pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Brentwood, Pennsylvania. He is the secretary of Higher Things.

WHY DO THEY HATE US? We have to make sure that we don't lump all Arab people or all Muslims into the same category with these terrorists. It would be wrong for individuals to act out in anger to Arab Americans or to vandalize people's property solely on the basis of their ethnic heritage. As individuals, Christ calls us to treat all people as we would like to be treated.

But there are some in the Muslim world who do hate the United States.The reasons for this are complex. We have to keep in mind that Islam is not Christianity and followers of Islam, in some parts of the world, are even strongly anti-Christian.

At times, this attitude is transferred to our nation as a whole.

Another reason is this: American movies, music, style and culture are known and imitated around the world. We may identify America with such values as freedom, equality and opportunity. Some in the Arab world, however, have identified America with greed, lust and materialism.

Our government also has angered many on account of our support for the state of Israel. None of this is easy to sort out. As Christians and citizens of the kingdom of heaven, our duty is to pray and labor for the conversion of all people, regardless or country or race, so that everyone may know Jesus as their only Savior, be baptized and enter the Christian Church.

F A L L 2 0 0 1 __ 7

An 18-year-old college freshman walks through the student union. All she sees are rows of tables, and special interest groups, clubs and organizations vying for her attention. Ski Club. Campus Democrats.

Amnesty International. Inter-Varsity. The Women Studies Coalition. The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Association. Free brochures. Free cookies. Free condoms. As she leaves, she wonders,“who am I and what have I gotten myself into. I wish I could go home.” p to this point, perhaps you have been shielded by the institutions that have surrounded you – home, family, and church. College is a different story! For the first time in your life, you will feel alone, lost in the shuffle of many, and expected to make decisions for yourself.

Before you even have your clothes put away in your dorm room or have your first class, you will be confronted with many decisions:“Who will be my new friends?”“Do I go to a party with someone I have just met?”“Do I drink? If so, how much?”“What do I say when a guy I have only known for two hours asks me back to his place?”

Add these decisions to “What do I want to do with my life?” and “Who will my future spouse be?”, etc., and you have quite a maze of decisions vying for your attention.

Then there is the issue of religion. College campuses are permeated with religion.You name it, it exists on campus, and if you can’t name it or find it, you have the opportunity to create it yourself, and many do.There are religious cults, such as the Mormons, as well as New Age “spirituality” groups.There are denominational, para-church and ecumenically-based campus ministries, usually organized around a “peace and justice” agenda or seeking “decisions for Christ” at the altar of entertainment and free pizza.

Whether you are heading to college this year or still have a few years left in high school, your college years will be filled with excitement, reward, trial, and temptation.The question is,“Will you be like the rest or be the person God desires? In short, will you dare to be Lutheran?

Clearly confessing the truth of Jesus Christ on a university campus is nothing new for Lutherans. After all, the Lutheran church was born on the academic turf of a German university at Wittenberg when a young man

U

__ 8

Lutheran @ College

Dare to be

named Martin Luther challenged the religious and campus community with his 95 Thesis.

Your college years will be some of the most formative and crucial times of your life.You will acquire useful skills necessary for life.Yet your faith, like Luther’s, will be challenged in many ways.

You will be tempted to think that your spiritual needs are best served with something new and different.Yet, it will be the holy things of Christ—His Word and the Sacraments— that will sustain you. What is most profitable for you before and after college, is exactly what you need during college!

Now this seems pretty obvious, but trust me, it is easily forgotten. Such was the case in Wittenberg.The Church in Wittenberg had forgotten who and what it was, why it was there, and what Christ had given it. Before long, the church became something other than what it was meant to be. And with such a shift came a movement away from that which was originally being taught and believed.

Simply put, you cannot afford to take anything for granted while in college. By faithfully attending the Divine Service and being involved with an LC-MS campus ministry, you will be connected to Christ.There, in the midst of cultural wants, you will get what you desperately need. Lutheran campus ministries do not exist to be Campus Crusade chapters with a Lutheran twist or another organization to provide you with free pizza. Pizza is great, but it isn’t the Gospel! At a Lutheran campus ministry or local LC-MS church, you will have the chance to find a home away from home because your identity is found in Christ.

You will be confronted with many things during college. We, at Higher Things, hope you will dare to be Lutheran.

The Rev. Marcus T. Zill is Pastor at St. Andrew Lutheran Church and Campus Center, Laramie, Wyoming. He also serves as Youth Chair of the Wyoming District of the LC-MS and as Public Relations Director for Higher Things, Inc.

The Lutheran Student Union is an on-line resource for Lutheran college students and teens in general. Please note their web address and other contact info on the following page under the sub heading The Lutheran Student Union.

by the Rev. Marcus T. Zill

MakingWaves SPECIAL SECTION

Making Waves Registration Information

LUTHERAN YOUTH CONFERENCE Making Waves is a conference for Lutheran youth. The goal of this conference is to provide solid, biblical instruction on the baptismal life from an uncompromisingly Lutheran perspective. The conference speakers (Pastors Peter Ledic. Steven Briel, Matthew Harrison, and Peter Bender) will focus on Lutheran spirituality as it flows from Holy Baptism and is played in the Biblical teachings on Vocation, Cross-bearing, Life in Two-Kingdoms, and Missions.

In addition to these main sessions, several smaller-group sectionals will be offered on topics about college, vocations, the Bible, and current issues. Participants will also join together around Christ’s word several times each day for worship. We have worked flexibility into the schedule for groups that wish to do some sightseeing and recreational activities during the afternoons and evenings. Don’t worry! You are going to have GREAT FUN! But more importantly, you are going to grow in your faith and understanding of God’s word.

Dates: July 8-12, 2002 On-site registration will be open from 1:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. on Monday July 8, 2002. Opening service will begin at 7:00 p.m.

The conference will conclude at noon on Friday, July 12.

Place: Duluth, Minnesota Duluth

Cost: $110 Payment includes all program and administrative costs excluding meals, housing, and travel. A non-refundable deposit of $50 per registrant must accompany each registration. Each group is required to submit ONLY ONE CHECK, drawn from a congregational or youth group bank account. Fees must be paid in US funds.The balance remaining for each group is due by June 15, 2002.

Capacity: 2,400 participants F A L L 2 0 0 1 __ 9

SPECIAL SECTION Who may register?

Registration Forms

While the conference specifically targets older high school youth, registrants may be any youth that have been confirmed before the date of the conference.

Non-LC-MS youth may attend with the approval of a local LC-MS pastor and the conference registrar.

Unregistered children, spouses and other adults cannot be accommodated as conference participants.

One “Participant Registration Form” must be completed for every adult and youth participant. Please make as many copies of this form as needed. Make sure these forms are completely filled out, including all required signatures. Incomplete forms will be returned. In addition, each group must submit one “Group Registration Form” no matter the size of their group. All forms must be mailed together with a single congregational check.

Adult leaders Adult leaders must be at least 21 years old at the time of registration, and be approved by their pastor for this role. The adult leaders are responsible for the actions and participation of their entire group. We recommend at least 1 adult leader per 9 youth participants. Registration forms must be submitted by one designated adult (congregational group leader).

In order to provide room for the maximum number of youth, we are limiting the number of adults according to the following ratio: Number of youth 2-8 9-17 18-26 27-35 36-44 45-49

Max. Number of Adults 2 3 4 5 6 7

When to Register Registration opens on October 26, 2001, and closes on January 11, 2002, unless the maximum capacity is registered before that time. Registrations may not be postmarked before October 26, 2001. We anticipate reaching capacity early, so register soon.

Registrations that are incomplete or do not include the full deposit, per person, will not be accepted.

After registration reaches 2,400, additional groups will be placed on a waiting list.

Cancellations, Substitutions, and Additions Cancellations must be made in writing before April 8, 2002. The $50 deposit is non-refundable. Groups must pay the full registration cost of $110 for any cancellations made after April 8, 2002.

Substitutions will be accepted any time prior to, or during on-site registration in Duluth. A $25 processing fee will be charged for each substitution.

Additions to your group can be accommodated as space permits until April 8, 2002. An additional processing fee of $25 will be charged for each addition.

Conference Housing We have arranged housing with several of Duluth’s hotels. Daily room rates range from $85-$120, plus 13% tax. Do not make housing arrangements at this time. After you have registered, you will be sent a packet of information including hotel amenities and how to make reservations.

H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 10

Making Waves Registration Information

Participant Registration Form

Print legibly or type.

Name _______________________________________________________________ n Male Last

First

Middle initial

n Female

Home Address_________________________________________________________ Day Phone________________________ City_______________________________________ State_____ Zip_____________ Birth Date_____/_____/_____ E-mail address__________________________________________________________ n Youth Participant

n Adult Participant

Congregation Name ____________________________________________________ Pastor’s name_________________________ City________________________________________________________ State_____ Name of Congregational Group Leader___________________________________________________________________________ Special Needs (check all that apply)

n Wheelchair access

n Sign Language

n Other________________________________

Participant’s Signature I agree to be an active participant at the Making Waves conference and will attend all plenary sessions, worship services, and as many sectionals as determined by my group.

I wish to receive Holy Communion at the closing service.

Yes n No n

Yes n No n

_______________________________________________________________ Participant’s signature

Date

Parent/Guardian’s Signature (Youth Participant’s only) I give permission for the above named minor child to participate in the Making Waves conference in Duluth, Minnesota (July 8-12, 2002). I further authorize the designated congregational group leader to consent to any emergency medical treatment necessary for said minor, while attending or traveling to and from the Making Waves conference. I declare that said minor is covered by primary accident and medical insurance and assume all responsibility and liability for injury to said minor. I further give Higher Things, Inc. permission to use any still or video images of said minor in conference publicity and news releases.

n I would like to subscribe to Higher Things magazine. n I have enclosed an additional $10.00 for my subscription n You may bill me at the address listed above

_________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian’s signature

Date

Pastor’s Signature I have reviewed this form and approve this individual’s participation at Making Waves.

This individual is a communicant member of an LC-MS congregation, and may rightfully receive Holy Communion.

Yes n No n Yes n No n

__________________________________________________________________ Pastor’s signature

Date

F A L L

Congregational Group Leader’s Signature I have reviewed this form and approve this individual’s participation at Making Waves.

Yes n No n ___________________________________________________________________ Congregational Group Leader’s Signature

Date

THIS FORM MUST BE SENT IN BY YOUR CONGREGATION GROUP LEADER

2 0 0 1 __ 11

SPECIAL SECTION

Making Waves Registration Information

Group Registration Form Complete one Group Registration Form per Congregation. Print legibly or type.

Congregational Information Name of Congregation__________________________________________________ Congregational Address_________________________________________________ n Subscribe this group to Higher Things magazine.

City________________________________________ State_____ Zip____________ Phone____________________ Name of Pastor______________________________ Number of Participants

______ Youth

______ Adults

n Please mail all copies of the magazine to the church (number of copies _______).

______ Total

Amount of Deposit: $______________ n Please mail magazine to each address listed on the individual registration form.

$50 per participant

Congregational Group Leader Each group must designate one participating adult as Congregational Group Leader. Registration confirmation will be sent directly to this individual.

n Bill us separately for the magazine subscription amount.

Name of Congregational Group Leader_____________________________________

n Included in our registration check is _________ ($7.50 x number of subscriptions).

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Higher Things: Dare to Be Lutheran

Writing Contest

“Lutheranism and Real Life”

How does the Christian faith play itself out in the real world?

$100 First Prize We’re looking for an article that is bold, brilliant...but brief. What are the trials and tribulations we face as Christians, and how does our Lutheran world view help us deal with these issues? Give us your honest opinion in 800 words or less. Don’t put it off. The deadline is November 30, 2001.

This contest is open to youth 13-18 years old.

Prizes First Place: $100 Second Place: $50 Third Place: $25

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For more information, write to:

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The articles of the top three winners will appear in future issues of Higher Things magazine.

An Inside-Out View of A Lutheran deep into the Contemporary

By Lori Lewis recently watched the movie The Wizard of Oz. In it, I saw simple truths that illustrated my own life. Like Dorothy, I, too, had gone to a make-believe land that seemed attractive, only to discover that what I needed had been in my own back yard all the time!

I grew up as a baptized Lutheran, attending Lutheran grade school and, for a few years, a Lutheran college. I was very familiar with basic Lutheran teachings. But that didn’t help.

Eventually, I turned away from the Lutheran Church.

In grade school, I was exposed to what became known as Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). Immediately, I was drawn in. It was exciting that Christians were singing music that sounded like the pop music I listened to on the radio. I thought that this would be a natural way for me to make a connection between my favorite music and what I was being taught in church.

During my college years, I really got into CCM. I attended concerts and bought records. When I dropped out of college, I moved back in with my parents and tried to figure out what to do with my life. One day, while listening to the radio, I heard a song from a Christian artist. I was excited to learn that this radio station played nothing but CCM artists. A short time later, I began working as a DJ at the station. I was again excited, as I thought I had found my life’s work. I thought,“I could combine my love of music with doing something that will further the Gospel.”

As the years passed, I became more and more involved with the Christian music world. I moved to southern California and began working at one of the hottest CCM stations in the country. I became a friend to many of the artists, and was drawn into working for record companies and individual artists.

I

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Christian Music world finds its pitfalls and discovers there’s no place like home.

Along the way, CCM became my whole world. I no longer knew many Lutherans. I was constantly being told that Lutherans were not “born again” and that I needed to follow a higher path to be closer to Jesus. Of course, as a DJ, I was listening to CCM all day long. I would hang onto the lyrics. Music was always my solace.

I remember a song by one artist that I admired at the time.The artist sang,“You take me farther and higher each day”.The song urged me to pursue a deeper relationship with God. I was bombarded with the message that the faith I grew up with was not enough. Instead, I had to do something. I had to “pursue God.”This song became the theme for my life. I began to long for this higher life.

CCM music was not about what Christ had done for me on the cross. Instead, it was about my role and whether I was living for God or not.

I soon realized that no matter what I did, my sin was always there. Constantly, I was looking for new experiences to make me feel like I had conquered sin in my life.When I would sorrow over my sin, someone would tell me that I was not trying hard enough, that I needed to pray more, confess more sins, and make Jesus first in my life. CCM songs would always urge me to live more like a Christian.

“It’s fire and ice, darkness or light, it’s one way or the other”. I tried so hard to live up to these words.

CCM lyrics made me think that the Lutheran Church was irrelevant. So, I left the church, thinking it was forever. I had burned out on trying to be spiritual. All day, I was surrounded by Christian music and other Christians, but I was suffering under the weight of my own sin.

When all seemed lost, I rediscovered the faith of my

youth.The Lutheran Church had what I was searching for. I found out that the strength I needed was not in me, but in the Lord’s Supper and in Baptism. Here I receive forgiveness of my sins. Here I see that it is what Christ has done for me, and that I can do nothing to add to His sacrifice for me!

I went looking for spirituality over the rainbow, and, instead, found it in my own backyard.

Today, I am open to many kinds of music. Rap, rock, dance, jazz, opera, house music, you name it. But now I am careful to analyze what I hear.

If you have questions about CCM, talk them over with your pastor. If some of the words make you feel confused about how you stand with God, your pastor can help set your conscience straight. If your pastor doesn’t listen to or recommend CCM, it’s not because he’s old-fashioned. It’s because he loves you. He wants to make sure that other people’s ideas about God don’t confuse you so that you forget the fact that Jesus died for the forgiveness of your sins.Your pastor knows how easy it is to forget that we are saved by God’s grace alone in Christ alone.

So rather than looking over that rainbow, look in your own backyard. And remember, there’s no place like home.

Lori (Campbell) Lewis is a former DJ in Orange, California. Currently, she is homemaker in San Diego, California.

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h

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A summer leadership opportunity to confe estled in a ridge of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, lies a century-old hotel called The Summit. Lacking elevators and air-conditioning, The Summit was my home for two weeks this summer. I, along with 182 young adults, had gone there to attend a Christian leadership camp and learn how to deal with college professors and fellow students who may challenge our faith.

The morning hours were spent in the classroom. Lectures were given by a variety of conservative professors and speakers. Topics ranged from Augustine and Pelagious to Relativism to The Biblical Christian Worldview. After digesting a heavy courseload in the morning, we’d break for lunch.

Then after a mid-afternoon lecture, we were free to go do what we wanted.

The majority of young adults at The Summit were nondenominational Christians. Once they learned that I was a Missouri Synod Lutheran, they were very interested in debating the subjects of Baptism and Holy Communion.

Much time was spent on the hotel’s front porch discussing whether Baptism was merely a symbol or a means of grace.

One of the young men that I got to know through daily discussions over Baptism finally told me one day that he believed I was going straight to hell. He said because I hadn’t personally asked Christ to dwell in my heart, I most certainly was not a Christian. When the two of us continued to argue over what Baptism is, I couldn’t use the words of Martin Luther in my response. The man would only accept the biblical references I had to support my beliefs. Luther’s Small Catechism was definitely out of the question!

The debate between us grew until we were writing each other notes in class, trying to prove our point to one another.

I passed him a note with Romans 6:3-5 written on it,“Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ

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ummit

by Adriane Dorr

camp gives a high school student an ss what Lutherans believe about Baptism.

Jesus were baptized into His death? If we have been united with Him like this in His death, we will certainly also be united with Him in His resurrection.” He wrote back, “Providing we receive Jesus.”

It then began to make sense to me. The majority of young adults at the camp wanted to WORK at their salvation.

They didn’t understand that God gives us His salvation freely.

They didn’t understand that Baptism requires no effort on the part of the receiver. To them, Baptism was merely a symbol, useful only as an outward sign of a person’s inner decision.

But Lutherans believe differently. Luther’s Small Catechism asks,“What benefits does Baptism give? It works forgiveness of sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this, as the words and promises of God declare.”That certainly doesn’t sound like an ordinary symbol to me! No, the old Adam within us dies daily and a new man arises—all because of Christ’s redemptive work through Baptism. And what does the Lord require of us in return? “It is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him?” Note that the catechism does not say God requires us to receive Him into our hearts or witness to a certain number of unbelievers. He only asks that we respond to His goodness (i.e. baptism, in love and adoration).

I had to explain to several bewildered young adults that the water of Baptism, as Luther says,“Is nothing else than a divine water, not that the water in itself is nobler than other water, but that God’s Word and commandment are added to it.”Well then, they wondered,‘how can children be baptized if they do not yet comprehend God’s Word’? Easy.

1) All people sin.

2) Babies are people.

3) Therefore, babies sin.

4) Sinners need forgiveness.

5) Babies are sinners.

6) Then babies also need forgiveness.

And they can get that saving faith through Baptism! How truly good God is!

When my friends at The Summit saw that it didn’t help to keep arguing with me, they tried one last angle.“If Christ won salvation for us on the cross, why do people need baptism?” Simple. He dishes out that rescuing salvation and forgiveness through the sacrament of Baptism. And that is why Lutherans make the sign of the cross on themselves— to remember their Baptism and the sign that was made on them at that time. That concept certainly confused most of the non-denominational Christians.

Well, by this time, most of my friends and some professors were either slightly peeved at me, totally confused, or interested. I was called hard-headed, stubborn, and unrelenting. One professor told me that God will deal harshly with me for not understanding Baptism correctly and for not being tolerant of others’ views.

Some of my friends still e-mail me regarding Baptism. The young man who said I am going to hell, signs his e-mails “Remember to confess with your mouth.” He is obviously as set in his ways, as I am. But, from my experiences at The Summit, I have gained knowledge of my faith, experience in explaining my beliefs, and a greater sense of thankfulness to God for His free and life-giving gifts.

Adriane Dorr is a High School student in Marcus, Iowa.

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Different is Good—or so said the restaurant

THE

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chain, Arby’s, a few years back. But is different always good?

While all of us are unique people, it can be painful to be too different. People who are different don’t quite fit in with the in crowd. In many cases, they’re made fun of or left out.

To be different can be very difficult.

I was a Lutheran pastor in Tennessee for five years where Lutherans make up less than one percent of the population.

Talk about being different!

Lutherans are few and far between in Tennessee. Many folks simply don’t know what Lutherans believe or practice.

Some people think Lutherans are Roman Catholics without a pope. Others think Lutherans are just another Protestant church made up mainly of people with German backgrounds.

As a pastor, I wondered how we, as Lutherans, could make ourselves better known?

More importantly, how could we get the good news of Christ out to people in need?

Some Lutheran congregations decided the most effective way to do this was to be like other Christian denominations.

There is an old saying that goes,“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” These churches adapted that saying to,“When in Tennessee, do as the Tennesseans do.” Pastors preached and congregations worshipped like the churches of other denominations. Since Nashville is the

Lu hera DIFFEREN By the Rev. Prof. Lawrence R. Rast, Jr.

Contemporary Christian Music capital of the world, that form of music was often used in services.

The result was that people were confused about what Lutheranism teaches and does. Are Lutherans the same as the Baptists, Methodists, or Pentecostals? Or are Lutherans different somehow? Over and over again people asked me these questions.

How did I answer? When I was in high school, I invited a Roman Catholic buddy to come to church with me. He was amazed at how familiar the service was. Another time a friend in the Foursquare Gospel church came to the divine service at my invitation. He couldn’t believe God’s word was the focus of the service.

Both commented,“We’re so much the same!”

“Only different,” I answered.

When it comes to sameness, what Lutherans believe is the same thing that the church has confessed throughout history. In this sense, we Lutherans are catholic. Catholic means whole, or that which is a part of the whole church, both historically and contemporarily. I’m not saying we’re Roman Catholic—after all, by calling themselves Roman, they limit the whole. The adjective Roman becomes more important than the noun catholic!

On the other hand, we Lutherans are different from Protestants, who think that the most important thing about the Protestant Reformation was its protest against Roman Catholicism. That is largely a negative activity. Lutherans, however, see God at work in history. Lutherans believe it is more important to know what the Reformers (like Martin Luther) kept rather than what they got rid of. Why? Because that’s the stuff

n

of catholicity. And what is at the heart of all this? The biblical, historic faith that God sent His son Jesus Christ into the world to bear human sin, suffer, die, and rise again. Christ is true God and true man who came into the world to pay for our sins, that is, to win salvation for us. Salvation is given to us through the Word and Sacraments.

Lutherans also carefully distinguish between the Law and the Gospel. Anything that says humans must do something to gain God’s favor—for example, making a choice or decision to give your heart to Jesus—confuses the Law of God and makes His salvation dependent on something you do.

In contrast, we Lutherans are truly protestant; that is, we testify to the primacy of the Gospel.

So how are Lutherans different? We hold to the Christian faith as revealed in God’s inerrant (free from errors) Word, confess that faith with the historic church, and seek to practice that faith in the present time. In all of this our Lord Jesus Christ is at the center. He is the one who entered the world to carry your sin and mine to the cross and to pay for it once and for all. Now our gracious Lord continues to come to us in the waters of Holy Baptism, in His preached word, in the Absolution, in the Sacrament of the Altar, and in the historic liturgy of the church.

So Lutherans are the same, only different, just as Jesus was the same as other men, only different. I guess Arby’s got it right. Different is good. We Lutherans don’t need to be ashamed of our uniqueness, instead we can be thankful for that Lutheran difference.

The Rev. Prof. Lawrence R. Rast, Jr., is assistant professor of church history at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Many folks simply don’t know what Lutherans believe or practice. Some people think Lutherans are Roman Catholics without a pope. Others think Lutherans are just another Protestant church made up mainly of people with German backgrounds.

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We want you to know about those who go to their rest, my fell

have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again; then

“Left Behind”

who went to their rest. We tell you only what the Lord has to

Lord comes will not get ahead of those who went to their rest trumpet sounds, the Lord Himself will come down from heaven,

who are still living and left behind will be caught up with t always be with the Lord. Now, then, comfort one another with

L

When the Son of Man comes, it will be like the time of Noah. In the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, and men and women were marrying till the day Noah went into the ark.

They learned nothing till the flood came and swept them all away. That’s how it will be when the Son of Man comes. Then there will be two men in the field—one will H I G H E R T H I N G S

be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at a mill—one will be taken and the other left.

Matthew 24:37-41

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ately, a series of books entitled Left Behind, by Tim LaHaye, has caught the interest of many Christian people. Full of questions about the coming of our Lord and what will become of planet earth, these Christians are intrigued by books, which give answers to our heartfelt questions. One of the most popular and controversial doctrines taught by the Left Behind series is the doctrine of the rapture. According to its doctrine, Jesus will silently come again and whisk Christians away into the skies. Following this silent rapture, a period of intense tribulation will fall upon those who, because of their lack of faith, have been left behind.The teaching of the rapture, it is claimed, is based upon Matthew 24:37-41 and I Thessalonians 4:13-18.The Matthew passage talks about some being taken and some being left when Jesus comes again.The I Thessalonians passage talks about the faithful being caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord.The events, which supposedly surround the rapture, include: mystery and bewilderment at the disappearance of so many Christians; driverless cars crashing and pilotless planes plunging to the ground; extreme persecution and hardship perpetrated by very evil men; courageous confessions of faith and selfless acts of valor; and the final triumph of good over evil. Actually, the ingredients of this drama are what great novels and movies are made of.The books are every bit as exciting as the most popular action thriller. But are the books true? Are they biblical? Do they promote the gospel of Jesus? Unfortunately, the answer to these questions is,“No!” The drama of Left Behind is false and quite dangerous.

Why do I say this?

First, the Bible is clear that Jesus has come once and will come a second time.The rapture theory says He will come a second time, silently, and then a third time, gloriously.The passages cited above, and most used to support the rapture theory, are really talking about the glorious return of Jesus on the last day and when He judges the earth.There is really no such thing in the Bible as a silent, second coming of Jesus. When Jesus comes again He will bring with Him all the angels and there will be the sound of trumpets.The sun and moon will stop shining. Stars will fall (Matthew 24:29-32).You will not miss it. And when people are whisked away from their cars or airplanes, there will be no one left behind to wonder what happened. It will be very obvious.The end will have come.

Second, the doctrine of the rapture is wrong because it makes the tribulation seem limited to a specific and very short period of time. Further, it suggests that Christians will not have to experience this tribulation. But the Bible says that the tribulation takes place from the time of Christ’s first coming, until He comes again (I Peter 1:3-9). We are in the tribulation right now.

low Christians, so that you don’t grieve like the others, who

n God will in the same way through Jesus bring with Him those

THE REAL STORY

old us: We who are left behind and are still living when the

t. When the order is given and the archangel calls and God’s and the dead who are in Christ will rise first. Then those

them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we’ll by the Rev. Klemet Preus

what I have told you.

How else can you explain the wickedness of the world and the lukewarmness of so many Christians? How else can you explain the wars and rumors of war which surround us? How else can you explain the mourning and unhappiness that is so often part of our lives? Jesus does not promise to come get us before things really get bad. He promises to comfort us with the positive assurance of His love and forgiveness, no matter how bad things get. And Jesus does not tell us to anticipate how He will make things easier for Christians. He tells us that His grace will be sufficient because things are tougher for Christians.

Third, as just stated, the faith of every Christian is not in things to come for planet earth. Rather, Christians need to learn to look to the cross of Jesus for relief of this world’s troubles.“I have determined to know nothing among you except Jesus and Him crucified (I Cor. 2:2),” says Paul.The greatest danger of the rapture theory is that Christians focus their devotion in the wrong direction. God wants us not to be exercised about the mysteries of the future.That’s why He makes it so simple. Jesus is coming back.That’s really all we need to know. And we are saved only through Jesus who died that we might live. Many advocates of the rapture theory will boldly assert that if you don’t believe in it, then you will be left behind.They clearly give the impression that the rapture doctrine, which was not invented until the late 1800s, is the single most important teaching of the Bible. But true Christians have always known that the central teaching of the Bible is that God forgives our sins for Jesus’ sake. We are saved through the blood of the lamb even if we don’t fully know what will happen in the end times.

Fourth, the doctrine of the rapture teaches that people are saved by witnessing dramatic events. According to the rapturists, those left behind can be converted by dramatic events and subsequent tribulation. The Bible teaches that people are saved only through the Word and Sacraments. In one of Jesus’ parables, a rich man went to hell. There, he begged to go back to earth to warn his brothers that they should believe. But, God told him,“They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to the Bible (Luke 16:29).”The rich man insisted that if someone came back from the dead, then unbelievers would certainly listen.“No,” said our Lord.“Faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).” God does not convert by scaring people with driverless busses plunging off cliffs. He saves through Baptism, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the blessed Sacrament. These means of salvation are rarely mentioned in the books by rapturists.

Finally, the Bible clearly teaches that there will be no second chance.“It is given for a man once to die and then the

judgement (Hebrews 9:27).”Yet the rapture doctrine 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 says that those who are left behind will have a second chance. If there is one thing that the Bible is certain about it is this: when Jesus comes again, then all chances for salvation are over.“Work while it is day,” says our Lord. There will come a time when it is too late for mission work. That is why the Bible says that when the nations see the coming of the Son of Man,“they will mourn (Zechariah 12:10-14).”

John Stephenson, a leading theologian of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, says that the secret rapture displaces Christ as the center of the Scriptures and deflects Christian hope.

Rather than Jesus coming in glory, it is a macabre reckoning on a series of intermediate, lurid events, whose dating becomes the object of feverish speculation.The rapture is a false and bad doctrine. It teaches a secret coming of Christ when the Bible does not. It points us in the wrong direction when confronted with tribulations. It detracts us from Christ crucified. It suggests that faith comes from dramatic events, rather than the Word. It teaches a second chance. As Stephenson says,“It displaces Christ.” Read the books if you must, but for heaven’s sake, don’t trust them.

The Rev. Klemet Preus is Pastor of Glory of Christ Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minnesota.

He is on the board of directors of Higher Things.

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What is a “Lutheran?”

Jello, Confirmation, and the Catechism

By the Rev. David Petersen, Pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana

You may remember The Little Blue Book The edition of the Small Catechism that most of our congregations use is Luther’s Small Catechism with Explanation. Published

by Concordia Publishing House in St. Louis, Missouri. Copyright 1991.

The bible passages in this edition are largely taken from the New International Version of the Bible.

Containing 260 pages, only 20 pages of the book are actually the Catechism (pages 9-29). Those 20 pages were written by Martin Luther. The remaining are the Explanation. When confirmands are asked whether they agree with the Small Catechism they are asked about those 20 pages.

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from your confirmation instruction that Martin Luther did not want a church body named after him. In fact, the word Lutheran was meant to be an insult. But much like the name Yankee in the American Revolution, the name stuck. It was taken up by those whom it was meant to insult. Obviously, we do not worship Martin Luther. We do not even hold his writings as sacred or inspired. What we mean in calling ourselves Lutheran is that we believe the same things that Martin Luther did, and we follow his teachings.

It is, of course, his Small Catechism that served as your primary textbook for confirmation instruction. And then, on the actual day when you were confirmed, one of the questions you were asked was,“Do you hold all the prophetic and apostolic Scriptures to be the inspired Word of God and confess the Doctrine of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, drawn from them, as you have learned to know it from the Small Catechism, to be faithful and true?” You answered,“I do!”

It is important to recognize that the Catechism does not determine our teachings. The Bible alone does that. The Catechism simply draws out what the Bible teaches and organizes it in a simple fashion that can be memorized. It is almost like Cliff Notes for the Bible! With the Catechism at your side, with its formulas known by heart (that is, yes, you guessed it, memorized) you will “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15) The other questions you were asked were more general. For instance, you were asked if you were baptized, if you renounced the devil, believed in the Holy Trinity, and wanted to remain forever in this faith. But the question about “the Doctrine of the Lutheran Church as you have learned to know it from the Small Catechism” was really asking, not so much “Are you a Christian?” but,“Do you want to be Lutheran?” It was asking,“Do you believe that what you learned from the Catechism is actually what the Bible teaches? Do you believe that you can know the truth and that you have found it in that little blue book?”

So, you see, the Catechism is a defining document for us. It helps us not only to know exactly what we believe, but also to express it. Some Christians are proud of the fact that they don’t have a formal statement of faith like our Catechism. All they’ll say is,“We believe what the Bible teaches.” And yet, we say that too, and so do the Jehovah Witnesses and Mormons. But we all believe very different things. Instead of giving an overly simplistic and empty answer, when we are asked about what we believe, we have something to say.

We have a confession.That confession, contained in the Catechism, places us into a long family line that goes clear back through Luther to Jesus and all the way back even to Abraham and Adam.

Being Lutheran might require you to sometimes eat strange Jello salads or pickled fish in musty church basements.You might even be asked to endure hugs from overly perfumed, squishy, elderly women who threaten to pinch your teen-age cheeks! But there are worse things in this life. And being Lutheran is more than all that. It is having a faith that knows what it believes. It is who you are, and what you meant, when you said,“I do!”

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Duluth, MN July 8-12, 2002

LUTHERAN YOUTH CONFERENCE

Regi s t r a t i o n I n f o I n s i d e

Pastor Robin Fish Leaders’ Guide I.

The Christian Faith is a Confession Pastor Zill addressed the challenges you may face, and probably will face, in college.

A. What fundamental challenge we will face, according to John 16:33? What we can expect to experience as Christians, according to 1 John 3:13?

John 16:33 tells us that we will face Tribulation in the world. Tribulation includes all sorts of troubles on account of being a Christian, temptations included. 1 John 3:13 specifically tells us that the world will hate us. The cause of that hatred is our association with Christ.

B. What does God expect from us, Matthew 10:32? According to Luke 12:8-9, what stakes are involved? What does Romans 10:9 add to raise the stakes even higher?

God expects us to confess Him. He has added the marvelous promise that if we confess Him, He will confess us also. He raises the stakes in Luke by adding the thought that if we deny Him, He will deny us as well. The stakes are ‘raised” further by the promise of salvation, clearly spoke for those who will faithfully confess Him. C. Every generation is tempted to think their situation is unique. Read John 9:22. Is what we are discussing old or new? Is our situation unique?

Actually, the problem is older than Christianity. Already, before Jesus died, the confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Promised one of God, was sufficient reason to be put out of the Synagogue. We don’t face being put out of a Synagogue, but we face the same peer pressure, and the same public undesirability of the forthright confession of Jesus Christ. Even “religious” folks may object to the faithful confession of the truth – as they did in Jesus’ day, or as many Christian groups do today, if we do not go along with them in their moralistic excesses.

II. Life Will Offer You Temptations Rev. Zill invites you to ask yourself, “Will I dare to be a Lutheran?” Good question! The world will ask other questions, equally hard to answer.

A. 2 Timothy 4:10 tells about the temptation one man faced, and how he handled it. Is this what you want to accomplish? Although it isn’t explicitly stated, speculate on what happened to Demas. What is the result of being a “Demas,” according to 2 Peter 2:20?

The temptation of Demas was the temptation to love the world – as that is different from loving Christ. Peer pressure or lust for the pleasures of the world, it works out the same, love of the world. Demas didn’t handle it well. He got hooked – popularity, celebrity, pleasure are all good guesses. What we don’t have to guess at is the result, if we are a “Demas.” The last situation is worse than the first, and the first was being lost and bound for hell. What is worse? It takes some real speculation to imagine that!

B. John gives us some sound direction in 1 John 2:15-17. Discuss what John means by each phrase. What temptations is he pointing to? How may they may appear in your daily life? Does Mark 4:19 add anything to your understanding? What about Matthew 18:7? Is there any good news?

“Do not love the world, nor the things in the world.” Do not love life or the pleasures and honors of the world. “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” Like Jesus said, “You cannot love God and mammon.” This is a war, a spiritual battle in which you must choose sides. If the pleasures or the approval of the world are too important for you, God isn’t important enough. God doesn’t accept second place in our priorities.

“For all that is in the world,” the stuff of the world, “the lust of the flesh” physical lust and the desires for pleasures and possessions, “and the lust of the eyes” the love of beauty, and art, and such “and the boastful pride of life,” the natural thrill in abilities and prowess at sports, the competition, and just plain pride “is not from the Father, but is from the world.” These things have nothing to do with God or spiritual realities of the Christian life. “And the world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God abides forever.” There are just two possibilities – death, corruption and hell, or life eternal. You really can’t take it with you. The passage from Mark adds further details and temptations, worries (which are opportunities for doubt), riches (which often fool us into thinking we have power, control, or security), and just desire for things. These temptations don’t strike directly at

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “Dare to be Lutheran on Campus” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued the faith, they creep in and slowly strangle the vitality out of faith and spiritual life, if we are not on our guard.

Matthew 18:7 tells us that the stumbling blocks of temptation must and will come But God knows, and He has planned, and the one who creates such troubles will not stand in the Day of Judgment. God’s word of judgment on the one who causes the stumbling tells us that God will be there with His people.

C. How must we respond to all these temptations? 1 John 4:1-3 gives us the first steps. What help do you get from James 4:4? Why is Mark 8:36 a profound question to ask in times of temptation?

We must resist. James 4:7 tells us to resist the devil, and he will flee. 1 John instructs us to test the spirits. It is this testing by the measure of Scriptures that will show us how “Lutheran” passes the test that so many other things fail. We should expect that there will be false preachers and false guides and test their teachings against the clear word of God. James reminds us that what is true may not be popular. In fact, we may want to make wide and easy acceptance of an idea or teaching the first “red flag” to prompt us to examine something all the more closely. The friendship of the world – public acceptability – frequently indicates that a thing or idea is not faithful or godly. One of the problems we will face is that doing right and standing faithful is not popular or easy, hence the title, “Dare to be Lutheran.” Mark 8:36 puts things in perspective and places the question in its true light – what is more important, the moment or eternal life?

III. The Power to Stand Faithful is from God. Pastor Zill urges you toward Word and Sacrament, and the fellowship of the saints for help in times of testing.

A. Read 1 Corinthians. 1:20-21, 26-29. What comfort is given here?

1 Corinthians 20 & ff. tell us that we should not expect the wisdom of this world to agree with the wisdom of God. The comfort is that truth in things spiritual is not found in numbers, or in popularity, or in the “quality” of the people who participate with us. God has chosen us: THAT is grace. He has chosen the weak and the foolish – us! That is good news. He has given us one another and our fellowship to comfort and encourage us. God works through the message preached -- through His Word! The lack of public approval doesn’t prove us to be right, but it is a testimony to God doing things His way -- and we simply receive from Him, so we have no reason to boast in ourselves.

B. Jesus hasn’t abandoned us. In the midst of temptation, we are with Him, as He says in John 15:18-19. How does forgetting that endanger us (refer to John 12:25)? What is needed for this battle, according to Romans 12:2?

What does Paul mean by “renewing of your mind ” here? What does Hebrews 10:23-25 add to the thought? What does 1 John 5:4-5 mean? How does it add to our understanding and our comfort?

Hostility towards us for simply confessing and standing faithful is part of our being “like Christ.” If we seek our own comfort and safety at the expense of the confession of Christ, we risk losing our salvation. Romans 12 reminds us that we need to be totally changed – renewed for the battle. The process is no less than a transformation! It is accomplished through the Word and Sacrament - the renewing of our minds by the Holy Spirit. Hebrews reminds us of our need for the fellowship of the saints and that we should be encouraging one another to love and good works. 1 John teaches us that our faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Nothing is more important, more pressing to us than our faith. It is the true believer who has overcome the world. That should comfort us, for it is not our effort, but the gift of God through faith which gives us the victory!

C. Dare to be Lutheran – what does that mean in the light of Phil. 2:15? How does Romans 8:35-39 add to your comfort? Going back to John 16:33, there is not only a challenge there, but a comfort. What is the comfort?

It means to dare to stand out, to be different, to go against the flow. But you are a light! A light that blends into the surrounding area is of no practical value! Romans 8 reminds us that nothing in our circumstances can separate us from the love of God. We can dare to be Lutheran because God will be with us to love us and bless us every step of the way. Nothing can go wrong. Things can and will go in directions we do not expect, when we stand faithful in God and trust in His love and power, but they cannot go wrong, for God will be with us to guide and preserve and prosper us according to His plan. Jesus challenges us in John 16 with the challenge of coming tribulation, but the comfort is that while we have troubles in the world, He has already overcome the world. In Jesus Christ we already have the victory.

Pastor Robin Fish Bible Study I.

The Christian Faith is a Confession Pastor Zill addressed the challenges you may face, and probably will face, in college.

A. What fundamental challenge we will face, according to John 16:33? What we can expect to experience as Christians, according to 1 John 3:13?

B. What does God expect from us, Matthew 10:32? According to Luke 12:8-9, what stakes are involved? What does Romans 10:9 add to raise the stakes even higher?

C. Every generation is tempted to think their situation is unique. Read John 9:22. Is what we are discussing old or new? Is our situation unique?

II. Life Will Offer You Temptations Rev. Zill invites you to ask yourself, “Will I dare to be a Lutheran?” Good question! The world will ask other questions, equally hard to answer.

A. 2 Timothy 4:10 tells about the temptation one man faced, and how he handled it. Is this what you want to accomplish? Although it isn’t explicitly stated, speculate on what happened to Demas. What is the result of being a “Demas,” according to 2 Peter 2:20?

B. John gives us some sound direction in 1 John 2:15-17. Discuss what John means by each phrase. What temptations is he pointing to? How may they may appear in your daily life? Does Mark 4:19 add anything to your understanding? What about Matthew 18:7? Is there any good news?

C. How must we respond to all these temptations? 1 John 4:1-3 gives us the first steps. What help do you get from James 4:4? Why is Mark 8:36 a profound question to ask in times of temptation?

III. The Power to Stand Faithful is from God. Pastor Zill urges you toward Word and Sacrament, and the fellowship of the saints for help in times of testing.

A. Read 1 Corinthians. 1:20-21, 26-29. What comfort is given here?

B. Jesus hasn’t abandoned us. In the midst of temptation, we are with Him, as He says in John 15:18-19. How does forgetting that endanger us (refer to John 12:25)? What is needed for this battle, according to Romans 12:2?

What does Paul mean by “renewing of your mind ” here? What does Hebrews 10:23-25 add to the thought? What does 1 John 5:4-5 mean? How does it add to our understanding and our comfort?

C. Dare to be Lutheran – what does that mean in the light of Phil. 2:15? How does Romans 8:35-39 add to your comfort? Going back to John 16:33, there is not only a challenge there, but a comfort. What is the comfort?

Pastor Leonard Poppe Leaders’ Guide Rev. Rast said, "Lutherans also carefully distinguish between the Law and the Gospel." This is not only a distinctive mark of the Lutheran faith, it is also the way St. Paul and Jesus taught the Scriptures. A crucial difference exists between God' s Word of Law and His Word of Gospel!

I.

What does God's Law do?

Just like the civil laws of state and nation, God' s Law demands punishment for lawbreakers. The Law is a "code" to live by. It provides order for all people (even pagans) so that chaos doesn' t destroy us all. The Law is also a "teacher" for the person who wants to know God-pleasing living. But God has a purpose for His Law that far surpasses the "code" and "teacher" function.

A. What does the Law do to every person on earth, Romans 3:19-20?

- "every mouth silenced" (see also 3:9) - "the whole world held accountable to God" - "no one will be declared righteous...by observing the Law" - "we become conscious of [our] sin" B. Briefly stated, "The Law condemns." In fact, we can say the Law always condemns. Does this make the Law bad? Read Romans 7:7-13. What, according to that passage, makes the Law so harsh? What did the Ninth Commandment reveal to Paul about himself?

- the Law comes from God and therefore, the Law is good. “The Law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good” (Romans 7:12).

- the Law is harsh because it shows us for what we really are; it reveals our sin.

- Paul once thought of himself as a pretty good guy. But God' s Law, when it did it' s proper job, showed Paul that he was utterly sinful. “For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, ‘Do not covet’” (Romans 7:7).

C. Satan also uses the Law, but how are his accusations different than God’s use of the Law? See John 10:10, 8:44, Job 1:8-11, 2 Corinthians 7:9-10.

- Satan "steals, kills destroys"; is a "murderer and liar"; and simply has nothing good to say about those who are the Lord' s.

- God uses the condemnation of His Law to bring Godly sorrow and repentance that leads to salvation.

II. What does the Gospel do?

"Gospel" means "Good News. After the Law has revealed so much bad about ourselves, there is still some good news for us – not good news about us, but good news for us.

A. What is the Gospel? 1 John 2:2 The Gospel is the simple, good news that Jesus died for the sins of the whole world. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).

B. After the Law reveals that there is no righteousness in us, what does the Gospel show us? Romans 3:21-26.

Though there is not righteousness in us, we still stand before God as righteous because “a righteousness from God, apart from the Law, has been made known.” This righteousness—Christ’s righteousness—belongs to everyone who believes, without any other consideration given to who they are or what they have done.

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “The Lutheran Difference” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued III. Law and Gospel in the Christian Life Some of the people that Jesus met wrongly believed that they were saved because of their good morals and conduct.

But good deeds aren’t good enough. Read Luke 18:18-30.

A. According to verses 20 and 21, what kind of man was this ruler?

He was a moral, law abiding person, someone we would enjoy having as a neighbor.

B. The Ruler believed he was a pretty good fellow. But when he met Jesus, something inside him trembled. What was he worried about? (v. 18) He was suddenly unsure about his salvation, which he had always based on his own righteousness. Wanting to be sure, he asked Jesus his important question.

C. The Ruler called Jesus "good." Though he had always strived to be good, he saw in Jesus someone who was better. What exactly did he see in Jesus, but did not yet fully realize? (v. 19) Jesus was indeed good, perfect good. In fact, Jesus was as good as God. In fact, Jesus was (is) God. Jesus didn' t deny this fact.

D. What "god" did the Ruler discover he worshipped? (vv. 22-25) Which commandment does this violate? How many sins does it take to prove you are a sinner (James 2:10)?

The man worshipped wealth, thus breaking the first and foremost commandment. It only takes one sin to completely condemn you and reveal that you are a sinner. “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.”

E. Even the other people listening to Jesus were cut to the heart by the Law. In their despair and hopelessness, they what question did they ask? What is Jesus'answer? (v. 27) Now you know the Gospel: you are saved (only) through Jesus'perfect life, His sacrificial and forgiving death, and His victorious resurrection. Repentance is faith seeing this heavenly gift and believing that you are in dire need of it. This need is revealed by God' s Law. When the commands and demands of God' s Law are rightly studied, we always see how we have not kept them. God' s commands will always condemn you. But we need not defend ourselves or make excuses...or despair. The sin is paid for in the blood of Jesus, the forgiveness is already there.

This is what God would have you turn to and trust and follow: the only Savior for you and the whole world, Jesus Christ. “Who then can be saved?” the people asked. Jesus replied, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

Pastor Leonard Poppe Bible Study I.

What does God's Law do?

Just like the civil laws of state and nation, God's Law demands punishment for lawbreakers. The Law is a "code" to live by. It provides order for all people (even pagans) so that chaos doesn't destroy us all. The Law is also a "teacher" for the person who wants to know God-pleasing living. But God has a purpose for His Law that far surpasses the "code" and "teacher" function.

A. What does the Law do to every person on earth, Romans 3:19-20?

B. Briefly stated, "The Law condemns." In fact, we can say the Law always condemns. Does this make the Law bad? Read Romans 7:7-13. What, according to that passage, makes the Law so harsh? What did the Ninth Commandment reveal to Paul about himself?

C. Satan also uses the Law, but how are his accusations different than God’s use of the Law? See John 10:10, 8:44, Job 1:8-11, 2 Corinthians 7:9-10.

II. What does the Gospel do?

"Gospel" means "Good News. After the Law has revealed so much bad about ourselves, there is still some good news for us – not good news about us, but good news for us.

A. What is the Gospel? 1 John 2:2 B. After the Law reveals that there is no righteousness in us, what does the Gospel show us? Romans 3:21-26.

III. Law and Gospel in the Christian Life Some of the people that Jesus met wrongly believed that they were saved because of their good morals and conduct.

But good deeds aren’t good enough. Read Luke 18:18-30.

A. According to verses 20 and 21, what kind of man was this ruler?

B. The Ruler believed he was a pretty good fellow. But when he met Jesus, something inside him trembled. What was he worried about? (v. 18) C. The Ruler called Jesus "good." Though he had always strived to be good, he saw in Jesus someone who was better. What exactly did he see in Jesus, but did not yet fully realize? (v. 19) D. What "god" did the Ruler discover he worshipped? (vv. 22-25) Which commandment does this violate? How many sins does it take to prove you are a sinner (James 2:10)?

E. Even the other people listening to Jesus were cut to the heart by the Law. In their despair and hopelessness, they what question did they ask? What is Jesus' answer? (v. 27)

Pastor Darrin L. Kohrt Leaders’ Guide Begin your study of God’s word by singing or praying stanzas 1 & 2 of, “Lord, Help Us Ever to Retain”(Lutheran Worship, 477; cf. The Lutheran Hymnal, 288) I.

What’s In A Name?

In Biblical times names were seldom arbitrary, as they are today. Names characterized or described the person or place they labeled. Names denote associations.

A. With what name does God refer to Himself in Exodus 3:14-15?

God tells Moses to tell the people “I AM“ has sent me(Exodus 3:14-15). This name indicates that God is eternal and completely independent. Note Jesus’ self-reference to “I Am” in John 8:58. Jesus is the eternal Son of the Father.

B. What does Jesus’ name say about Him in Matthew 1:21-23? How is the meaning of His name reflected in the promise Jesus made in Matthew 28:20?

The name “Jesus” means Savior. Immanuel means “God with us.” Christ our God, even after He ascended into heaven, remains “God with us.”

C. What were followers of Jesus first named in Acts 9:1-2? Why is this an appropriate name, especially in light of John 14:6?

Jesus’ followers were first referred to as “the Way” (Acts 9:1-2). It was evident Christians followed a different “way” from the Jews or other people. Jesus calls Himself “the Way,” the only source of life and salvation (John 14:6).

D. When were Jesus’ followers first called by His name? See Acts 11:26.

The disciples were first labeled with Christ’s name at Antioch (Acts 11:26). This name was given to them by their enemies, and was not intended as a compliment, but as a term of derision.

II. The Source of Our Name To bear the name of Christ is to possess the love and grace that God bestows in and through His Son, Jesus.

Lutherans understand themselves to be not simply one kind of Christian, but believers who teach and confess the faith as understood by the apostles themselves.

A. Who initiates the “naming” of God’s people? See Isaiah 43:1. What comfort does this verse offer to Christians?

God takes the initiative. He always works in and through His Son. In particular, God calls us His own – “you are mine.” God will faithfully take care of what is His own.

B. How is God’s name given to us? See Matthew 28:19-20. Note the name identification in the Trinitarian invocation.

See LW p.136.

In Holy Baptism the triune God receives us to Himself, marking us with His strong name (Matthew 28:19-20). The Divine Service begins with the “Trinitarian invocation,” that is, the name of God, which recalls the very same name given us at baptism. The Divine Service is a gathering of the baptized around Word and Sacrament. rd C. How are we able to believe in Jesus as our Savior? See 1 Corinthians 12:3, also the Small Catechism, 3 Art. Explanation.

All people are born spiritually blind and dead (Ephesians 2:1) and unable to believe in God on their own. The Holy Spirit working through the word of the gospel (Romans 10:8-15) brings people to faith (1 Corinthians 12:3).

People are so bound by sin they cannot even “decide” for Jesus. Our ability to believe is God’s work from start to finish. Note Luther’s explanation to the Third Article of the Creed.

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “Jello, Confirmation, and the Catechism” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued III. Remaining True to Our Name Sadly, to simply refer to one’s self as a Christian and/or a Lutheran doesn’t necessarily mean much these days. Many false teachings are harbored under the Christian and Lutheran names.

A. According to 1 Peter 4:12-16 what can a person expect for bearing Christ’s name?

Suffering and hardship will come with being a Christian. Bearing Christ’s name (living according to His word) will give offense to the unbelieving world (1 Peter 4:12-16).

B. What promise is made in Matthew 10:32-33?

When Christ’s name is confessed on earth, it is valid also in heaven (Matthew 10:32-33). Jesus promises he will intercede for us before the heavenly Father.

C. What is to be avoided according to Romans 16:17-18; Gal. 1:8?

God commands us to avoid any and every false teacher who misuses God’s name (Romans 16:17-18; Gal. 1:8).

He calls us to careful discernment. Anybody can claim (and does claim) to use the Bible. But the Bible can be (and is) twisted to support almost anything. For confessional Lutherans, the Book of Concord is the guide for correct interpretation of Scripture.

D. What reward for faithfulness is promised in Revelation 3:5, 12? Who actually accomplishes this faithfulness in you, according to 2 Timothy 2:13 and Galatians 2:20.

The reward for remaining faithful in the true confession of Christ’s name is eternal life in heaven (Revelation 3:5, 12). Christ accomplishes this faithfulness for us, even if we should fail Him because of our sin. By the power of Baptism, we live by faith in the Son of God. Close your study of God’s Word by singing or praying stanzas 3 & 4 of the above hymn.

Pastor Darrin L. Kohrt Bible Study I.

What’s In A Name?

In Biblical times names were seldom arbitrary, as they are today. Names characterized or described the person or place they labeled. Names denote associations.

A. With what name does God refer to Himself in Exodus 3:14-15?

B. What does Jesus’ name say about Him in Matthew 1:21-23? How is the meaning of His name reflected in the promise Jesus made in Matthew 28:20?

C. What were followers of Jesus first named in Acts 9:1-2? Why is this an appropriate name, especially in light of John 14:6?

D. When were Jesus’ followers first called by His name? See Acts 11:26.

II. The Source of Our Name To bear the name of Christ is to possess the love and grace that God bestows in and through His Son, Jesus.

Lutherans understand themselves to be not simply one kind of Christian, but believers who teach and confess the faith as understood by the apostles themselves.

A. Who initiates the “naming” of God’s people? See Isaiah 43:1. What comfort does this verse offer to Christians?

B. How is God’s name given to us? See Matthew 28:19-20. Note the name identification in the Trinitarian invocation.

See LW p.136. rd

C. How are we able to believe in Jesus as our Savior? See 1 Corinthians 12:3, also the Small Catechism, 3 Art. Explanation.

III. Remaining True to Our Name Sadly, to simply refer to one’s self as a Christian and/or a Lutheran doesn’t necessarily mean much these days. Many false teachings are harbored under the Christian and Lutheran names.

A. According to 1 Peter 4:12-16 what can a person expect for bearing Christ’s name?

B. What promise is made in Matthew 10:32-33?

C. What is to be avoided according to Romans 16:17-18; Gal. 1:8?

D. What reward for faithfulness is promised in Revelation 3:5, 12? Who actually accomplishes this faithfulness in you, according to 2 Timothy 2:13 and Galatians 2:20.

Pastor Mark D. Selby Leaders’ Guide I.

What Left Behind says about the end times and rapture.

Pastor Preus notes that the Left Behind series teaches a popular and controversial doctrine (teaching) called the Rapture.

A. According to the article, what does the doctrine of the Rapture teach?

"Jesus will come silently first and then in Glory at the end." Rapture, most simply defined, refers to the event when believers will be "raptured" or "caught up" in the clouds to meet Jesus Christ in the air.

B. Look up Matthew 24:37-41 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. What are these passages talking about? What characteristics of Jesus’ return can you identify in these verses?

People who believe in the rapture use Matthew 24:37-41 as proof. But this passage speaks of the UNEXEPECTED return of Christ, not some kind of secret return. Nothing in this passage suggests that Christ will come in secret. 1 Thessalonians further explains that there will be no mistaking the event: there will be “a loud command” and a “trumpet call of God.” Other helpful passages point to Jesus Christ’s return as being visible and in glory: Acts 1:11; Revelation 1:7; Matthew 25:31. He will come to judge the world: Matthew 25:32; John 12:48; and 2 Corinthians 5:10. Yet, the exact time of Jesus’ return is known only to God (Mark 13:32).

C. What do each of the following verses have to say about false teachings? Mark 13:22-23, 2 Corinthians 11:3, Galatians 1:8-9.

Jesus warns that false prophets will come into the Church, hoping to “deceive the elect” (Mark 13:22-23). This is exactly the fear St. Paul expresses in 2 Corinthians 11:3, that Satan will deceive us like he did Eve, and turn us away from “sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” St. Paul also warns that those who preach a false gospel must be condemned (Galatians 1:8-9), because they will destroy faith.

II. The false teaching of the Rapture also says that tribulation is limited to a specific and very short period of time. However, trouble and turmoil have been around for a very long time.

A. How does 1 Peter 1:3-9 explain this?

Hardships come to examine and strengthen our faith in the living hope of the resurrection. Guide the students to see the inheritance we have from God in heaven -- eternal life. As silver and gold are tested by fire to make them finer, our faith (of even more value than gold and silver) is tested by trials and tribulation to help it endure to the end. Does this shed a little light on what our country suffered September 11, 2001? Jesus says things will get worse and He doesn’t promise He will come before.

B. In the following Bible verses what does Jesus promise: 2 Corinthians 12:9; John 1:29; John 11: 25; Revelation 2:10; Romans 8:28.

Jesus promises that, even in times of difficulty and trial, His grace is sufficient for all our needs (2 Corinthians 12:9). He has already taken away the sins of the whole world (John 1:29) and given eternal life (John 11:25)— including yours—how much more is He able to guard and protect you in these last days? The crown of life awaits the faithful (Revelation 2:10), and by Jesus’ grace we patiently wait for Him (Romans 8:28).

C. Even though Jesus has not come yet in glory, He does come to give us gifts to sustain our faith. In what way is He with us today? (See Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 10:16; and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26) Jesus still comes through Word and Sacrament to give us forgiveness of sins, His eternal life, and salvation. By these channels of God’s love, the Holy Spirit creates and nurtures our faith until Jesus comes—On the Last Day—to take us home.

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “Left Behind: The Real Story” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued III. In what must the Christian place his/her trust?

A. Pastor Preus notes, "The greatest danger of the rapture theory is that Christians focus their devotion in the wrong direction." Where do the authors of Left Behind want their readers to put their trust? According to Ephesians 2:8-9 and 2 Peter 1:1, where does faith come from?

The authors of Left Behind wrongly believe that faith is a human thing, something we give God. Therefore, they focus on courageous confessions and selfless acts of valor, and good triumphing over evil. Faith, according to these Bible verses, is not something we give to God, but something God gives to us!

B. According to 1 Corinthians 2:2, where does God want the Christian to put his/her trust?

The work of our Lord Jesus on the cross and in the empty tomb is where we God’s wants His children to put their trust. This is the only message St. Paul desired to preach: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are where He triumphed over sin, death, and the devil—and where He gives us the victory through Holy Baptism (See also Rom. 6:3-4). We already have victory over all things—including future things-because of Jesus.

C. What does Jesus promise about His return? See Revelation 22:12 and James 5:8. What comfort does it provide for the Christian?

Jesus promises that He is coming soon! Although we do not know the day our the hour, Christians draw comfort from the faithful promise that Jesus is coming to draw us to Himself and out of this valley of tears and death.

Closing Prayer: Then let at last Your angels come, To Abram’s bosom bear me home That I may die unfearing. Within my earthen chamber keep My body safe in peaceful sleep Until your reappearing. And then from death awaken me That my own eyes with joy may see, O Son of God, You glorious face, My Savior and my ground of grace! Lord Jesus Christ, Oh hear my prayer; oh, hear my prayer, Your love surround me ev’rywhere! Amen

Pastor Mark D. Selby Bible Study I.

What Left Behind says about the end times and rapture.

Pastor Preus notes that the Left Behind series teaches a popular and controversial doctrine (teaching) called the Rapture.

A. According to the article, what does the doctrine of the Rapture teach?

B. Look up Matthew 24:37-41 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. What are these passages talking about? What characteristics of Jesus’ return can you identify in these verses?

C. What do each of the following verses have to say about false teachings? Mark 13:22-23, 2 Corinthians 11:3, Galatians 1:8-9.

II. The false teaching of the Rapture also says that tribulation is limited to a specific and very short period of time. However, trouble and turmoil have been around for a very long time.

A. How does 1 Peter 1:3-9 explain this?

B. In the following Bible verses what does Jesus promise: 2 Corinthians 12:9; John 1:29; John 11: 25; Revelation 2:10; Romans 8:28.

C. Even though Jesus has not come yet in glory, He does come to give us gifts to sustain our faith. In what way is He with us today? (See Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 10:16; and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26) III. In what must the Christian place his/her trust?

A. Pastor Preus notes, "The greatest danger of the rapture theory is that Christians focus their devotion in the wrong direction." Where do the authors of Left Behind want their readers to put their trust? According to Ephesians 2:8-9 and 2 Peter 1:1, where does faith come from?

B. According to 1 Corinthians 2:2, where does God want the Christian to put his/her trust?

C. What does Jesus promise about His return? See Revelation 22:12 and James 5:8. What comfort does it provide for the Christian?

Pastor Tim Schellenbach Leaders’ Guide I.

Mrs. Lewis mentions that her co-workers in the Contemporary Christian Music industry referred to Lutherans as not being “born again.”

A. Read John 3:1-8. According to what Jesus tells Nicodemus, when were we, in fact, born again?

Jesus refers to being born again “of water and the Spirit.” We are born again in the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.

B. What is the view of being “born again” which was apparently held by Mrs. Lewis’ co-workers?

They seem to have held a view, common among many Evangelical American Christians today, that being “born again” has to do with an inexplicable, emotional experience, often accompanied by a significant “victory” over some specific sin.

C. In which of these two views does being “born again” come as a gift from God? In which is it at least partially the work of man? Which one, in other words, truly gives God all the credit and all the glory?

Baptism is something that God does to us, for many of us even before we were old enough to remember it, through the hands and voice of the pastor who performs the baptism. The other definition of “born again” depends upon a change in man, some decision or experience for which we are partially responsible. Some people realize that they will never truly be able to do it right, and that leads to despair, as Mrs. Lewis experienced. But when people fool themselves into thinking that they have achieved this sort of conversion experience, it is often a source of pride, of giving glory to oneself and one’s own achievement in getting “closer to God” instead of giving the glory to Whom it properly belongs.

II. Mrs. Lewis tells us of the struggle against sin and guilt which she could never escape by using the advice which the CCM lyrics and her friends gave her.

A. Read Romans 7:8-25. Did Paul seem to be having any more success in conquering sin in his life than Mrs. Lewis was having?

It is important to remember as we read Paul’s confession and struggle here that he was describing his ongoing struggles with sin. He wasn’t describing what his life was like before his conversion. Those who think that they have conquered sin in their life and been “born again” in that way are putting themselves above the apostle Paul.

Ironically, the kind of pride which can lead a person to say such a thing, is the worst sin of all, namely idolatry, giving glory to self rather than God. B. If our relationship with God depended upon our own ability to conquer sin in our lives, could any of us ever truly be saved?

No. Discuss with the students, however, that this does NOT mean that we should simply be complacent about sin, however. Sin is still displeasing to God and we still must fight against it. The point is, though, that our relationship with God, our acceptance by Him, is based on His victory on the cross which is given to us in Baptism, Absolution, and the Supper, and not on any victories we may win.

C. Where did Mrs. Lewis finally find what she needed in order to know and take comfort that God loves her and forgives her sins?

She found the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ which covered her own sinfulness, not in her struggles to be a better Christian, but in those things which came to her from outside herself in the Divine Service: The Word and Sacraments.

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “An Inside-Out View of CCM” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued III. Mrs. Lewis mentions that she is now “open to many kinds of music. Rap, rock, dance, jazz, opera, house music, you name it.”

A. One argument often heard in favor of CCM is that “secular” music is sinful and that Christians should only listen to “Christian” music. Evaluate this idea in light of Genesis 1:31 and 1 Timothy 4:4.

According to these passages, all that God made is good. It is true that since Adam and Eve fell there is sin in the world, and thus we should discern those things which would lead us into sin. But God’s gifts to us in creation are good and meant to be enjoyed. It is a denial of God’s good gifts to say that only “Christian” music and “Christian” art, etc. are for Christians to appreciate. There is much to be appreciated in all styles of music.

B. Which is more likely to damage your trust in God, “secular” music which doesn’t talk about Jesus Christ at all, or allegedly “Christian” music which gives you a false picture of Him? Mrs. Lewis’ experience shows us that saying something false about our relationship with God is considerably worse than not saying anything about Him at all. “Secular” music which talks of other things in this life don’t hurt our relationship with God, unless a particular song specifically advocates or tempts a person to sin (and such songs do exist, so we should be careful). But the music which claims to teach us about Christ causes us to let our guard down, and we are influenced falsely to trust in something besides Christ’s coming to us in Word and Sacrament.

C. On the other hand, does the fact that you may “like” certain styles of music mean that those styles are appropriate for the Divine Service?

The Divine Service is not a place for entertainment where we listen and participate in the types of music we might “like.” It is the place where our God comes to us. While it would perhaps not be sinful to use music which was of a more “popular” style if that’s all that we as the Church had available to us (and, provided the words were doctrinally correct, which is true of almost none of the CCM that’s out there), such a style is not as reverent as is fitting for the presence of the One who comes to us in His body and blood, nor is it as apt for teaching doctrine as is the music which is found in our liturgies and hymnals.

Pastor Tim Schellenbach Bible Study I.

Mrs. Lewis mentions that her co-workers in the Contemporary Christian Music industry referred to Lutherans as not being “born again.”

A. Read John 3:1-8. According to what Jesus tells Nicodemus, when were we, in fact, born again?

B. What is the view of being “born again” which was apparently held by Mrs. Lewis’ co-workers?

C. In which of these two views does being “born again” come as a gift from God? In which is it at least partially the work of man? Which one, in other words, truly gives God all the credit and all the glory?

II. Mrs. Lewis tells us of the struggle against sin and guilt which she could never escape by using the advice which the CCM lyrics and her friends gave her.

A. Read Romans 7:8-25. Did Paul seem to be having any more success in conquering sin in his life than Mrs. Lewis was having?

B. If our relationship with God depended upon our own ability to conquer sin in our lives, could any of us ever truly be saved?

C. Where did Mrs. Lewis finally find what she needed in order to know and take comfort that God loves her and forgives her sins?

III. Mrs. Lewis mentions that she is now “open to many kinds of music. Rap, rock, dance, jazz, opera, house music, you name it.”

A. One argument often heard in favor of CCM is that “secular” music is sinful and that Christians should only listen to “Christian” music. Evaluate this idea in light of Genesis 1:31 and 1Timothy 4:4.

B. Which is more likely to damage your trust in God, “secular” music which doesn’t talk about Jesus Christ at all, or allegedly “Christian” music which gives you a false picture of Him? C. On the other hand, does the fact that you may “like” certain styles of music mean that those styles are appropriate for the Divine Service?

Pastors Glenn Niemann and Erik Rottmann Leaders’ Guide I.

Confessing the Faith…

A. What was the majority of the young adults present at the Summit? What difficulties did this present for Adriane as she discussed Baptism with them?

Because most of the other participants were not Lutheran but non-denominational, Adriane was not able to refer to the Small Catechism for help, as many non-Lutherans are suspicious of it. But she still had it in her memory, and was able to draw important help from it as she pointed out Scripture passages concerning Baptism.

B. Why do you suppose the other participants in The Summit were so interested in discussing Baptism and Holy Communion with Adriane?

Non-denominational Christians do not share a common understanding with us concerning Baptism and Holy Communion. Many are even suspicious of Lutherans because of the practices that arise out of this faith, including Infant Baptism and Closed Communion. These are distinctive teachings for Lutherans.

C. Adriane did well to remember some important Scripture passages about Baptism. Take a look at these and identify ways that each makes an important contribution to a right understanding of Baptism: Acts 2:38-39; Romans 6:3-5, Titus 3:5-7; Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21; 1 Corinthians 6:11.

Acts 2:38-39 indicates that the promise of Baptism gives “the forgiveness of your sins” and is “for you and for your children.” Romans 6:3-5 describes the deadly power of Baptism, that by it we are “baptized into His death.” Jesus’ death becomes our death, so that we do not die. Mark 16:16 and 1 Peter 3:21 assure us that Baptism saves, and 1 Corinthians 6:11 announces that by virtue of Baptism, God looks upon us as holy and sanctified “in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” D. Many students at The Summit believed that Christians need “to WORK at their salvation.” According to 1 Corinthians 12:13, who does the work of making a person part of the Church?

“We were BAPTIZED BY ONE SPIRIT,” that is, the Holy Spirit is who makes people part of the Church.

II. … Only the Faith A. One of Adriane’s challengers responded to Romans 6:3-5 by adding the words, “Providing we receive Jesus.”

Take another look at that passage. Do these verses, or any near them, add this condition? Can you think of any verses that do?

Of course, the Romans passage does not. Other passages might be offered as insisting that we accept Jesus, but the ability to accept is impossible. Direct the students to such passages as Ephesians 2:1 and Colossians 2:13, impressing upon them the important truth that dead people can do nothing—not even accept Jesus! Then press on to the next question in this study…

B. Now read Romans 10:17, Ephesians 2:8-9, and 2 Peter 1:1. According to these passages, is faith something we give to God, or something God gives to us? How does realization impact your understanding of infant Baptism?

“Faith comes by hearing”(Romans 10:17); “it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8); a gift that even the apostles needed to be given (2 Peter 1:1). By way of analogy, the story of Lazarus in John chapter 11. Just as Lazarus could not come out from the tomb until Jesus enabled Him (John 11:38-43), so we cannot believe until the Holy Spirit makes us able (See also 1 Corinthians 12:3). Also point out the explanation to the Third Article of the Creed in the Small Catechism. Because faith is something God gives us and we don’t give God, all people are in need of this gift whether they are adults or infants. It is not any easier for an adult to believe than a newborn baby! God gives faith—through Baptism and the Word—to each.

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “The Summit” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued C. It is easy to read some of the words written in the Bible and immediately conclude that they describe things we must do for Jesus. The command, “believe,” is one of them, but faith comes from God! How about the command to repent? See Romans 2:4, Acts 11:18, and 2 Timothy 2:25. According to these verses, whose work is repentance?

We cannot even feel sorry for our sins on our own! God works repentance and faith, as these verses indicate.

God’s kindness LEADS you to repentance” (Romans 2:4). Thankfully, even the Gentiles are given it (Acts 11:18) and we pray for those who oppose sound teaching, that “God would grant them repentance” (2 Timothy 2:25).

III. … And Nothing But the Faith Many Christians feel suspicious of the Small Catechism because they wrongly think of it as “the extra stuff you need to know in order to be Lutheran.” What is a much better way to think of the Small Catechism? What are the catechism’s six chief topics? Where do these topics come from? Discuss possible ways to explain for your friends the relationship between the Small Catechism and the Bible.

All six chief parts, or chapters, of the Small Catechism come from the Bible: The Ten Commandments, the Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, the Office of Keys and Confession, and the Sacrament of the Altar. These chapters summarize the core teachings of the Bible and are used to teach the faith in a simple way. Rather than letting your friends think of the Small Catechism as “extra, Lutheran stuff,” gently explain to them that it is like a study guide. It is the “Readers’ Digest Condensed Version” of the Bible. Or, explain that the catechism is like a map we use to enter a large forest. First, we must follow the map to see where it leads, and second, we must continually test the map to see if it accurately describes the landscape. In the same way, the Small Catechism leads us into the Bible, but continually test it! See if it accurately describes the faith written in the Scriptures! (Acts 17:11). That little book can handle it!

Pastors Glenn Niemann and Erik Rottmann Bible Study I.

Confessing the Faith…

A. What was the majority of the young adults present at the Summit? What difficulties did this present for Adriane as she discussed Baptism with them?

B. Why do you suppose the other participants in The Summit were so interested in discussing Baptism and Holy Communion with Adriane?

C. Adriane did well to remember some important Scripture passages about Baptism. Take a look at these and identify ways that each makes an important contribution to a right understanding of Baptism: Acts 2:38-39; Romans 6:3-5, Titus 3:5-7; Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21; 1 Corinthians 6:11.

D. Many students at The Summit believed that Christians need “to WORK at their salvation.” According to 1 Corinthians 12:13, who does the work of making a person part of the Church?

II. … Only the Faith A. One of Adriane’s challengers responded to Romans 6:3-5 by adding the words, “Providing we receive Jesus.”

Take another look at that passage. Do these verses, or any near them, add this condition? Can you think of any verses that do?

B. Now read Romans 10:17, Ephesians 2:8-9, and 2 Peter 1:1. According to these passages, is faith something we give to God, or something God gives to us? How does realization impact your understanding of infant Baptism?

C. It is easy to read some of the words written in the Bible and immediately conclude that they describe things we must do for Jesus. The command, “believe,” is one of them, but faith comes from God! How about the command to repent? See Romans 2:4, Acts 11:18, and 2 Timothy 2:25. According to these verses, whose work is repentance?

III. … And Nothing But the Faith Many Christians feel suspicious of the Small Catechism because they wrongly think of it as “the extra stuff you need to know in order to be Lutheran.” What is a much better way to think of the Small Catechism? What are the catechism’s six chief topics? Where do these topics come from? Discuss possible ways to explain for your friends the relationship between the Small Catechism and the Bible.

Pastor Eric Andrae Leaders’ Guide

Opening Prayer: Collect for a Day of Humiliation and Prayer: Almighty and most merciful God, our heavenly Father, of whose compassion there is no end, who is long-suffering, gracious, and plenteous in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin, we have sinned and done perversely, we have forsaken and grievously offended you; against you, you only, have we sinned and done evil in your sight. But we implore you, O Lord, remember not against us former iniquities; let your tender mercies speedily come to us, for we are brought very low; help us, O God of our salvation, and purge away our sins for the glory of your holy name and for the sake of your dear Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Adapted from The Lutheran Hymnal, 85).

I.

Where was God on 11 September A.D. 2001? Where is God? A. See Jeremiah 23:24; Psalm 139:7-10; Colossians 1:17; Ephesians 4:10 These texts demonstrate that God is omnipresent; he is everywhere; nothing escapes his knowing.

B. See St. Matthew 28:16-20; St. Luke 22:19-20; Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:26-27, 2:20; John 20:21-23; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 1:22-23a These texts answer Luther’s question: “Yes, God is everywhere–he is in the rope, and in the tree, and in the rock– but where is he for you, to forgive you?” In and by our Lord and God Jesus Christ, he is in the water of Holy Baptism, the Holy Ministry of the Church, the sacred body and blood of the Sacrament of the Altar, the holy words of forgiving Absolution: through these things, these Means of Grace, he comes and resides in us! He comes to us, his Church, which is indeed the very Body of Christ. Each one of us uniquely and all of us corporately are clothed with, are united with him. As his corporate body we celebrate his presence in and by the apostles’ doctrine (teaching and preaching) and fellowship (the community of faith), the breaking of bread (the Lord’s Supper), and prayers (Holy Liturgy, which also enlivens private devotion).

C. In light of these Bible texts, discuss the following quotation from Martin Luther: “...It seems that God forsakes and rejects us completely; because he has been hidden from us, and we are hidden along with him. But in faith, in the Word, in the sacraments, he is revealed and perceived.... Here indeed the Word draws near as a little flame that glows in the midst of the darkness; and as it spreads its gentle rays, through doctrine and the sacraments, God commands that they be apprehended. If we receive them, God is no longer hidden to us in Spirit, but only in the flesh” (From Commentary on Genesis, 1535-45, as quoted in Luther on Vocation by Gustaf Wingren [250]).

Paradoxically, God hides himself in Word and Sacrament in order to reveal himself. According to a worldly (flesh) perspective, we do not perceive God; but by the perspective of faith (Spirit), we know him to be graciously present and active. Wingren adds, in a footnote: “This hiddenness ‘in the flesh’ will not vanish before the resurrection.

There is nothing dark in [God] himself. Only to us is God hidden, as long as we live in the world of sin [this earthly world]. In the world where we shall see [heaven], which comes after faith’s battle, God is not hidden” (250).

II. Why did God allow this evil to happen?

A. See Proverbs 3:11-12; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Hebrews 12:7-13 In order to discipline us in the faith…

B. See Revelation 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Acts 2:37-39 … which leads to repentance.

C. See 1 Peter 4:12-13; 2 Corinthians 1:5; Romans 8:17; 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 Mysteriously, to unite us to Christ in his suffering!

Higher Things – Dare to be Lutheran “Where are you, GOD?” Bible Study – Leaders’ Guide, continued D. See Isaiah 40:12-14; Job 40:1-42:3; Romans 11:33-36 Ultimately, the best answer: we simply do not know. This is related to God’s hiddenness, which, again, is not revealed in or to the world, but in the Means of Grace to his children (1 Corinthians 2:12-14). We must be willing to admit that we do not always have the answers to all questions the world can pose. The Almighty Creator’s perfect ways are not our fallen ways and, as such, he is not even required to directly answer our challenges (see Job).

In light of these Bible texts, discuss the following commentary on St. John 9: Jesus does not say that sin never results in suffering, nor does he say that it always does. He does not say that suffering never strikes at random without apparent reason; he says only that it did not in the case of the man whom he healed. We puzzle over this issue, this question--we have, however, the clear warning that our ways are not God’s (Isaiah 55:8), and his purposes may be beyond our comprehension. But he does one thing more. He gives to the sufferer the dignity of being united with him in his own suffering, and he gives to all of us the duty and privilege of attending to the suffering person, directing and freeing us thereby to show compassion to all who are in pain. ... God’s power and might are at work in our world. ... Indeed, the events of life will not be entirely unclear to our understanding. But faith never becomes sight in this world, and belief in God’s good might and power is belief in God, not in an impersonal process whose course and meaning we can master and control. (Adapted from Gilbert Meilaender, Bioethics: A Primer for Christians [115, 117].

Read John 9 together as a class before reading the quotation from Meilaender.

III. God’s great answer to evil is the peace of God that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7). This peace between God and man, not a worldly peace, is brought about by Christ’s sacrificial death, in our place. The cross is our peace.

The teacher may want to emphasize the abundance of God’s grace and love in this action: Some may be willing to die for a friend; some perhaps, but doubtfully, for an enemy; but which of us would be willing to give up one’s only child. The Father sacrificed his only Son for us, for you!

Sidebar: Regarding bigotry based on ethnicity or color of skin, Rev. 7:9-10 gives us a beautiful picture of what heaven will look like. If we don’t like others because of their skin color, then we better get over it, because we’ll be spending an eternity with many who don’t look like us! Of course, it is not bigotry to discuss religious differences and point out that Christ is the only way to the Father; thus we must witness to all who are created in the image of God and for whom Christ died, but who sadly reject him, and this certainly includes Muslims.

Closing devotion and prayer: “My tears have been my food day and night, while all day long they say to me, ‘Where now is your God?’” (Psalm 42:3) Where is your God? People ask us that question in a doubting or mocking way. Death and sin, want and war, as well as bravery, power and honor — that is what people see. But where is your God? We need not be ashamed, however, of the tears we shed because we do not yet see God, because we can not convincingly demonstrate God’s presence to the world. Those are tears which flow for God’s sake and which he records in his book. (Psalm 56:8) Where is your God? What can we answer? We can only point to the person who in life, death, and resurrection revealed himself to be God’s true Son. In death he is our life, in sin our forgiveness, in distress our helper, in war our peace. “You shall point to this person and say: that is God.” (Luther).

-Lord Jesus, when I am tempted, because I cannot see God and his power and love in this world, let me firmly look upon you, for you are my Lord and my God. Amen. [Adapted from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Meditating on the Word, p. 66]

Pastor Eric Andrae Bible Study I.

Where was God on 11 September A.D. 2001? Where is God? A. See Jeremiah 23:24; Psalm 139:7-10; Colossians 1:17; Ephesians 4:10 B. See St. Matthew 28:16-20; St. Luke 22:19-20; Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:26-27, 2:20; John 20:21-23; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Ephesians 1:22-23a C. In light of these Bible texts, discuss the following quotation from Martin Luther: “...It seems that God forsakes and rejects us completely; because he has been hidden from us, and we are hidden along with him. But in faith, in the Word, in the sacraments, he is revealed and perceived.... Here indeed the Word draws near as a little flame that glows in the midst of the darkness; and as it spreads its gentle rays, through doctrine and the sacraments, God commands that they be apprehended. If we receive them, God is no longer hidden to us in Spirit, but only in the flesh” (From Commentary on Genesis, 1535-45, as quoted in Luther on Vocation by Gustaf Wingren [250]).

II. Why did God allow this evil to happen?

A. See Proverbs 3:11-12; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Hebrews 12:7-13 B. See Revelation 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Acts 2:37-39 C. See 1 Peter 4:12-13; 2 Corinthians 1:5; Romans 8:17; 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 D. See Isaiah 40:12-14; Job 40:1-42:3; Romans 11:33-36 In light of these Bible texts, discuss the following commentary on St. John 9: Jesus does not say that sin never results in suffering, nor does he say that it always does. He does not say that suffering never strikes at random without apparent reason; he says only that it did not in the case of the man whom he healed. We puzzle over this issue, this question--we have, however, the clear warning that our ways are not God’s (Isaiah 55:8), and his purposes may be beyond our comprehension. But he does one thing more. He gives to the sufferer the dignity of being united with him in his own suffering, and he gives to all of us the duty and privilege of attending to the suffering person, directing and freeing us thereby to show compassion to all who are in pain. ... God’s power and might are at work in our world. ... Indeed, the events of life will not be entirely unclear to our understanding. But faith never becomes sight in this world, and belief in God’s good might and power is belief in God, not in an impersonal process whose course and meaning we can master and control. (Adapted from Gilbert Meilaender, Bioethics: A Primer for Christians [115, 117].

III. God’s great answer to evil is the peace of God that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7). This peace between God and man, not a worldly peace, is brought about by Christ’s sacrificial death, in our place. The cross is our peace.