2011 Winter - Higher Things Magazine (with Bible Studies)

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Higher Things

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Inside This Issue!

• Christmas in the Nicene Creed • Talking to Your Non-Lutheran Friends about Jesus • When a Loved One Commits Suicide • The Shepherds Who Adore Him www

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Where: Holy Cross Lutheran Church 1100 Market Street Carlisle, Iowa Cost: $30/person ($25 for Saturday ONLY) Teacher: Rev. Brent Kuhlman RSVP: Pastor Kevin Johnson (515) 989-3841 johnsonknc@aol.com

God’s Divine Design

When: January 13-14-15, 2012

When: February 17-19, 2012 Where: Trinity Lutheran Church 824 Wisconsin Avenue, Sheboygan, Wisconsin Cost: $50/person - through 12/31/11 $60/person - 1/1/12 - 1/31/12 $70/person - after 1/31/12 Teacher: Rev. George Borghardt RSVP: Leila Wells (920) 458-8246 leilaywells@gmail.com

For more information about these retreats or any other ones coming up,

visit www.higherthings.org/

retreats!

Believing in an Age of Skepticism

H I G H E R

Good News for People with Big Problems

Higher Things Winter Retreats

When: Friday, March 16, 2012 Where: St. John’s Lutheran Church 146 Sligo Road West Mount Forest, Ontario Cost: $25/person Teacher: Rev. William Cwirla RSVP: Pastor David Saar, 519-323-4844 or prsaar@wightman.ca

Hey You!!

There’s still time to schedule a Higher Things Retreat at your church this winter or spring!

If you’re interested in hosting a retreat in your area, contact Sandra Ostapowich, Conference & Retreat Coordinator retreats@higherthings.org.

Contents T A B L E O F

Volume 11/Number 4 • Winter 2011

Special Features

4 Christmas in the Nicene Creed

By Rev. George Borghardt A creed, by definition, is a statement of belief, but did you know that the Nicene Creed is also a wonderful summary of the heart of the Christmas story? Rev. Borghardt enthusiastically takes you on a grand tour of this ancient creed that we so often recite but perhaps, at times, take for granted.

6 Joy: The Serious Business of Narnia

By Rev. Samuel Schuldheisz Just when you thought you’d discovered all the layers of the Chronicles of Narnia, Rev. Schuldheisz delights us with yet another rich facet of C. S. Lewis’ timeless fantasy series: joy.

8 Talking to Your Non-Lutheran Friends About Jesus

By Rev. Mark Buetow Communion. Liturgy. Infant baptism. Sign of the Cross. The list goes on and on. If you haven’t wrestled through topics like these with your non-Lutheran buds, you will eventually. Be more prepared by reading Rev. Buetow’s wise and very clear counsel so that you can confidently bring it all back to Jesus!

10 Confessions of a Former Evangelical

By Tamara Ockree Tamara provides a special perspective as a Lutheran as one who converted as an adult. Lifelong Lutherans will be encouraged to remember how blessed they are and converts will be able to relate to and appreciate her journey. No matter what, gratitude will abound!

12 In, Not Of

By Scott Diekmann Life is a balancing act in so many ways. One tension we Christians find ourselves caught up in is being “in” but not “of” the world. This pendulum can swing too far in either direction, leading either to an unbiblical separation from the world, or a disregard for who we are in Christ. Scott gives us some instruction in spiritual “physics,” and provides some helpful tips as we walk this fine line.

14 The Thing About Mary

By Sandra Ostapowich As Lutherans, we recognize that it’s okay to give Mary the honor she deserves, yet we understand that she, too, needed a Savior as much as we do. Sandra expounds on Mary’s response to what God blessed her with, showing how this young girl, the mother of our Lord, was an exceptional example of faith and trust, by the grace of God, even when faced with very unusual circumstances.

22 When a Loved One Commits Suicide

By Rev. Peter Preus Few acts are more profoundly devastating for those left behind than when a loved one end his or her life. Rev. Preus plainly, but gently, grapples with this heart-wrenching topic, reminding us of where our hope ultimately lies.

24 Planking or Cross Beaming?

By Rev. Philip Hoppe In our social networking culture, even the most quirky, pointless maneuvers can become the latest, greatest fads.

Planking is no exception. Rev. Hoppe gives this popular phenomenon a bit of a Gospel twist that just might lead you to start a relevant trend of your own.

Regular Features 19 Poetry

Higher Things Magazine is now including poetry in our lineup.

We hope to make this an occasional feature of the magazine, and invite you to enjoy two well-crafted entries.

20 Christ on Campus: Let’s Get Started!

By Rev. Marcus Zill Rev. Zill gives a step-by-step game plan to launch a college campus ministry. Whether you are a student, pastor or your average church attendee, his advice can put you well on your way to help serve this increasing need for our Lutheran college students across the country.

28 Catechism Thy Kingdom Come

By Rev. William Cwirla Jesus is our King of Kings, so when we pray the petition in the Lord’s Prayer, “Thy kingdom come,” what are we really asking for? Rev. Cwirla artfully answers that question by taking you on a whirlwind trip to the four corners of Christ’s kingdom.

30 Bible Study Talking to Your Non-Lutheran Friends About Jesus Here is a sample of one of our student Bible studies that links up with Rev. Buetow’s article on Page 8.

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I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the onlybegotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds, God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God, begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made; who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried.

And the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures and ascended into heaven and sits on the right hand of the Father. And He will come again with glory to judge both the living and the dead, whose kingdom will have no end. And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified, who spoke by the prophets. And I believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church, I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins, and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life @ of the world to come. Amen.

Homo factus est.“He became man.”

God became man. The eternal Word–who was with the Father from all eternity, through whom all things were made and apart from whom nothing was made that is made–became man. The One who is God. Light of light, very God of very God, begotten not made, being of one substance with the Father. He became man.

On Christmas, He is in the arms of the Virgin. Completely God–begotten of His Father from all eternity. Completely Man– born of the Virgin Mary. He’s all yours: for you and for your salvation. That’s Christmas!

Every time the Lord’s Supper is celebrated, you confess this Christmas Gospel in the Nicene Creed: Homo factus est.

“He became man.” God became man.

It’s a miracle that should probably cause you to pause for a second. Our sins caused God to become man. God did this to rescue you and me from all that we do, have done, and will do. This includes the evil that we are scared that we’ve done and the evil that we consider just a little sin. He took on our flesh to save us from it all.

Homo factus est. God became man to suffer under Pontius Pilate. He became flesh to be crucified, to die, and to be buried. This is what it took to save you: God becoming man.

Christ is born to die for you. He lives the life you should live before God and counts it as your life. Then He suffers for all your sins–past, present, and future. The just for the unjust. The holy for the godless. God

dies. It’s unbelievable! But He does just that: He dies for your sins and for the sins of the whole world.

God became man. What an indescribable miracle! How amazing! How awe-inspiring!

And when these words were said in the early Church, when that miracle was proclaimed, hats would come off and heads would bow in reverence. When homo factus est was said, every knee in the church would go down to worship Him. How could they not “come adore on bended knee, Christ the Lord the newborn king?”

You don’t have to drop to your knee at the words “He became man.” You are free to simply bow your head. It would be a good Christmas gift for those around you. With just a bow of your head you can communicate to them how important Jesus’ incarnation is to you and to them.

Homo factus est. “He became man.”

For you, for me, for all, God has become man to save you from your sins. That’s a Merry Christmas in December! It’s also a Merry Christmas every time you say the Nicene Creed!

“Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.” (LSB 368:3) Pastor George Borghardt is the Senior Pastor at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in McHenry, Illinois. He also serves as the Conference and Deputy Executive of Higher Things.

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From Lutheran Service Book, Angels We Have Heard on High #368 (st. 3) Text and music: Public domain.

Joy:

The Serious Business of Narnia

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by Rev. Samuel Schuldheisz

C.S. Lewis’ world of Narnia is as well known–dare we say, lionized–for its vivid, Biblical imagery as it is for its infectiously loveable characters. Instantly, the Pevensies and Puddleglum, Rumblebuffin and Reepicheep, Mr. Tumnus, and yes, even Eustace Scrubb, come to mind. From Aslan to Z, Narnia’s beloved creatures draw the reader further up and further into this magical world, time and time again.

That is the sheer delight of reading The Chronicles of Narnia. There is always more–more adventure, more to fill our imaginations, more to point us to Jesus. Narnia is a land of abundance because Aslan, the King of Narnia, is an abundant king. Narnia is nothing without him and everything with him. He is the heart and soul of Narnia.

And the one thing that ties all the adventure and imagination together is joy. The Chronicles are full of Christian joy, especially in the triumphant conclusion, The Last Battle. No matter what order you read The Chronicles, The Last Battle must be read last, for every good fairy tale ought to end with “happily-ever-after.”

You can’t understand the end of the play until you have seen the whole thing all the way through. Like the book of Revelation, The Last Battle takes us to the end, where the story is just getting started. There’s always more.

From the beginning, in The Magician’s Nephew, joy resounds in the void as Aslan sings Narnia into existence. His word is action: “Narnia, Narnia, Narnia, awake. Love. Think. Speak. Be walking trees. Be talking beasts. Be divine waters.”

And so it goes for the rest of the Narnian tales. Peter, Edmund, Susan and Lucy Pevensie discover this joy upon entering the wardrobe. The old Narnians shout in triumph upon Aslan’s return as he restores Prince Caspian to his rightful throne. Reepicheep, the valiant mouse, longs to reach the shores of Aslan’s country.

For wherever Aslan is present, there is joy–something he constantly shares with those who least expect or deserve it. From beginning to end, Narnia is full of joy.

“That sounds great and all,” you say. “But I don’t live in Narnia. I live in a nightmare world, with real villains: sin, death and the devil. Life is anything but magical.”

We often find Aslan’s words to Lucy echoing in our ears: “You do not yet look so happy as I mean you to be.”

Although Narnia is a fictional world, it has a great deal to say about this world. For, as Aslan tells the children in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, “This was the very reason why you were brought to Narnia, that by knowing me here for a little, you may know me better there.” When at last the children leave Narnia, a little bit of the “magic” always follows along. No one ever leaves Narnia the same as when they first arrived. So it is for the reader. The book is over. Life goes on. The reader may leave Narnia but Narnia has not left the reader.

Aslan pounces and beckons you to true joy in Christ.

When life’s villains overwhelm us, we find ourselves longing to escape this terrible-horrible-no-good-

very-bad-dead-as-sin world in hopes of finding a new world–a world where joy is more than a glimpse. A world without tears, pain, sin and death, a new creation.

Even though we are plagued by the devil’s temptations and the frailty of our sinful flesh in this world, that world is already yours in Christ. Rejoice! You are baptized. You belong to Christ. Your temptation? Overcome. Your suffering? Endured. Your death? Defeated. Wherever Jesus is present, there is joy–joy in the forgiveness won

by Christ. All you need is water, bread and wine; Jesus’ life-giving Word does all the sin-forgiving work.

That’s how it is with Jesus. There’s always more. More forgiveness. More life. More joy. Narnia draws us out of the wardrobe and into the true joy of the Gospel, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself (2 Corinthians 5:19). Now there’s Good News for all our real-world problems. The pages of Narnia point us to a reality bigger than Narnia itself–a joy greater than our sorrows. Weep no more, for the Lion of the Tribe of Judah has conquered by his holy, precious blood and his innocent suffering and death. Jesus is the King of abundance. We are nothing without Christ and everything with him. Jesus is the heart and soul of his bride, the Church.

“This joy,” says Lewis, “is the serious business of heaven.” Thankfully, Christ’s joyous presence isn’t stuck in heaven; Jesus brings heaven’s joy to earth in the Divine Service. God inscribes his Name upon your forehead and heart: baptized and redeemed by Christ Crucified. Jesus’ verdict of the Last Day trumpets from your pastor’s mouth: “You are forgiven.” Christ feeds you with His Body and Blood and you join the saints in heaven and earth singing, “Holy, holy, holy.”

Heaven’s mirth is reflected here on earth below.

Literature mirrors life. Christ’s unceasing joy is the serious business of Narnia and all Christians, for your names are inked with blood in the Lamb’s book of life, the Greatest Story ever told–which goes on forever and in which every chapter is better than the one before.

And that is no fairy tale.

Rev. Samuel Schuldheisz lives in the shire of southern California known as Huntington Beach where it is always summer and never winter. He serves Redeemer Lutheran as associate pastor and is blessed with a beautiful wife, Natasha, and daughter, Zoe. He can be reached at samwise.schuldheisz@gmail.com

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Talking to Your Non-Lutheran Friends About Jesus

By Rev. Mark Buetow

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Have you ever had an argument with one of your friends

about something related to religion? Maybe you’ve heard things like this: “Well at our church we don’t baptize babies.” or “In our church we use grape juice for communion.” Maybe even something like, “Well, our pastor teaches us not to take the Bible literally.”

First: What Word of God applies?

What do the Scriptures say about what you’re discussing? What does Jesus Himself say about it? Remind your friend that, if they claim to be a Christian, they must follow the Scriptures. So which Scriptures apply to what you’re talking about? By taking it back to the Word of God, you get away from saying, “Well that’s what I think.” or “This is just how my church does it.” Rather, we hear what our Lord Himself says about it.

Second: Does it glorify me or Jesus?

When talking about a particular topic, we need to analyze whether what we’re saying about it is really about ourselves and what we’re doing or about Jesus and what He’s done for us. Another way of asking it is, “Who gets the glory? Me or Jesus?” Is it about “me, my decision, my living, my effort?” Or is it about Jesus and His perfect life in our place, His death for our sins and His triumphant resurrection over death?

Third: Is the forgiveness of sins central?

The Lord’s Word teaches us over and over again that the reason Jesus came was to save us from our sins. He came to be the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). His very name “Jesus” means, “The Lord will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Is the topic you are arguing with your friend about something that has to do with this forgiveness or is something else more important?

Fourth: How does it connect and relate to Jesus?

Every topic can be taken back to Jesus. When we talk about something like homosexuality, we might recall how marriage is a picture of Christ and the church—something homosexuality denies by its very nature. Or in talking about evolution, we might note that evolution is built on the idea that things die. Yet for Christians, death is an enemy that is defeated by Jesus. In other words, every topic you could argue with your friends about can somehow be tied in to Christ and who He is and what He’s done for you.

By taking the conversation back to Jesus, you are reminding your friend that the Big Deal isn’t our opinions, but Christ and His Word.

Sometimes the connections to Christ in the topics we discuss are not immediately obvious.

When it seems your friend has you stumped and you know there must be a way to talk about Jesus, then here’s a good idea: Ask your pastor! Your pastor has been trained in the Bibleinterpreting-Kung-fu that will help you see the connection to Christ in the conversations you have with your friends. Ask him, as he’s more than willing to help you draw the attention from yourself, your friend, your opinions and preferences and to put the focus all on Jesus.

It can be frustrating when you argue with a friend over differences in your faith and your understanding of what being a Christian is all about. By bringing the conversation back to Christ, we and our friends are reminded that it’s about Jesus and what He’s accomplished for you and delivers to you. After all, it’s not about you or about “being right” or even about “being Lutheran. ”And in the end, whether your friends agree with you or not, you have the hope and confidence that you are a child of God because of Jesus and that means you can believe the truth and still be friends with your friends!

NOTE: For an example of how to apply these ideas in talking to your friends, see the Bible Study on page 30, where we walk through the example of talking to your friends about The Sacrament of the Altar.

Rev. Mark Buetow is pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church in DuQuoin, Illinois and he serves on the Higher Things Executive Council.

He can be reached at buetowmt@gmail.com.

Rembrandt van Rijn, The Baptism of the Eunuch Heaven Above 1626, Oil on panel, 64 × 47.5 cm (25.2 × 18.7 in) Museum Catharijneconvent

There are all kinds of topics you can argue about with your friends that have a basis in religion and faith: baptism, the Lord’s Supper, evolution and creation, abortion, marriage, homosexuality, the Bible, what kind of music you should use in church, what kinds of things Christians should or shouldn’t do and on and on. It can be frustrating to simply argue opposite sides of an issue. So here is some advice on how you might engage your nonLutheran friends in discussing things in a way that takes the attention off your opinions and puts the focus on Jesus and His Word. No matter what the topic of the conversation is, here are some ways to take it back to Jesus and show them that what you believe isn’t just your opinion but the Lord’s Word.

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Confessions of a

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Former

great misfortune as a child of not being raised Lutheran. It wasn’t that I was raised by atheists, wolves, or anything like that. In fact, I was raised by Christian parents. We attended a nondenominational Christian church every Sunday, and I was taught a number of wonderful things about the Bible. I knew very early on that Jesus is our Savior, that He is the only Son of God, and that He died for our sins. I was encouraged to read the Bible on a regular basis and to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others.

Evangelical

By Tamara Ockree

I was, however, taught some incorrect things by my church. I was taught that, although Jesus’ death was sufficient for my salvation, I needed to be sufficiently thankful for His death. The best way to show Jesus how thankful I was for Him dying on the cross was to sin less and be baptized.

I was taught that in order to be baptized, I had to make a decision to follow Jesus and that this decision was only to be made for the right reasons. When I was 9 years old I made this decision, and I am being honest with you when I tell you that it wasn’t exactly for the “right” reasons that my church believed it to be.

I decided to get baptized because I wanted to have communion and my church wouldn’t let you commune until you were baptized. My church didn’t use wine at communion because, like good evangelicals, we knew that drinking alcohol of any kind automatically called into question your Christianity. Instead, we had delicious grape juice and my 9-year-old self wanted in on the action.

As I got older it seemed more evident to me that my baptism must somehow be invalid. After all, as a 9-year-old I had promised to become an obedient child of God, and yet here I was as an adult still sinning. It seemed like sin was everywhere in my life.

My sinning wasn’t decreasing at all and I certainly wasn’t getting better. I started to wonder if I was even saved at all. Could Jesus really forgive me for my sins when I had so obviously broken my promise to Him that I made in my baptism? I contemplated asking the pastor to baptize me again…maybe if I meant it this time I would do better and sin less.

I began to just go through the motions of being a Christian. I went to church, helped out where I could, smiled, laughed, and never let on that I was worried that I wasn’t even a Christian. I lived in constant terror of the end times. I was certain that Jesus would find me lacking and banish me to the fires of hell. I was in deep spiritual trouble and I had no idea to whom I could turn for help.

In 2003, I married Ben. He was raised Lutheran and understood that he was a sinner, freely forgiven in the gospel of Christ. In jealousy I scoffed at his beliefs. I told him that if he was really a Christian then he would certainly try harder to act like one. He drank beer, for crying out loud! How could someone think they were a Christian, yet place themselves in the peril that alcohol

would surely lead to. Ben didn’t continue to carry the burden of his sins the way I did. He repented of his sins and let them go. He had assurance in his baptism and he truly believed that he had no reason to fear Judgment Day. A couple of years after Ben and I were married, I took a confirmation class at his Lutheran church. In this confirmation class I learned that I had a lot of misinformation regarding what the Bible said about faith, sin, forgiveness and eternal life. I learned that baptism wasn’t some act of obedience that I had given to God, but was instead the free gift of salvation that He had given to me. I learned that we can never be perfect and that is why we need Jesus Christ. If somehow I could stop sinning, then there would be no need for a savior. I found out that I am simultaneously a saint and a sinner and it is only in death and the life to come that I will truly be made perfect.

God knows that our flesh is weak, He knows that we are sinful, and He knows that we need Jesus. Through my Lutheran catechesis I learned these things were true and I was given a sense of peace and calm that I had never experienced. No longer did I fear the grave—no longer did I worry that on that last day Jesus would say to me “I did not know you”.

I am a little jealous of those of you who were raised Lutheran. You have been taught God’s true word and have taken comfort in the assurance the gospel gives, that Jesus died for your sins—all of them. You have been taught that there is nothing required of you for salvation, that the Holy Spirit was given to you in your baptism, and that there are no struggles that you endure that Christ does not endure with you. I am jealous because you’ve had this knowledge all along and I had to wait so long for it. Yes, I am jealous, but I take solace that this sin, too, has been forgiven because of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Now that I am a Lutheran, I can say with all certainty,“Come Lord Jesus!”

Tamara Ockree is the wife of Benjamin Ockree, who is a 2nd year seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She is the mother of two little baptized children of God and works at Walther Library on the campus of the seminary. She can be contacted at tamara.ockree@ctsfw.edu.

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In, not Of

By Scott Diekmann

Christians are to be in the world

but not of the world. You’ve heard it before. St. John tells us (John 17:9, 1 John 2:15). Your pastor has proclaimed it. Perhaps even your parents have preached it to you. And now you’re going to hear it again. You know what I’m talking about, don’t you? In but not of the world. So really, how is this supposed to work? It means something like this: In this life you need to get involved in the grimy details of the lives of the people around you, whether they’re believers or unbelievers, while at the same time avoiding the temptations of a world soaked in sin.

So, does being in the world mean you have to post Bible verses or Luther quotes on your Facebook page? Nope. Hand out blankets to the homeless guy living under the viaduct? No— although both of these things are good things to do. It means helping the people God has placed around you at that moment–your friends, the nerd crowding you on the bus, the drama queen crying in the hallway. In the world may even mean befriending someone you might not normally hang with. God calls you to be His hands in unexpected ways. Going on that mission trip and studying well for the big test are equally worthy endeavors in His eyes. So are sharing your lunch and sharing your faith. These all are ways to serve your neighbor through your vocations. And even though your good works are tainted by your sin, Christ makes them holy. His work on the Cross declares your good works righteous.

Being in but not of the world can be a tough balancing act. It’s like having to manage both sides of a teeter totter. I think back to when my mom used to tell me before I left the house on Friday night to “have fun, but not too much fun.” My dutiful response was, of course, “Okay, Mom.” That still annoys me. Did I really need to hear that every time? Well, in actuality, I did.

Not being of the world doesn’t mean you’ve got to hide in your room, playing Halo or watching your favorite DVD by yourself. Go out, have fun and be in the world. But know “when to say when.”

If you get into a situation that would cause you to sin, it’s time to hit the brakes. This might be something as seemingly harmless as failing to defend someone’s reputation, or as serious as committing a sexual sin. They are both sins in God’s eyes.

Now before I get all pious sounding I’ll have to confess that this hasn’t always worked out so well for me, and consequently for those whom I should have helped. In the in vs. of battle, there have been numerous times when “of” won. I think there was even a time or two when the person for whom I was trying to be the example turned out to be the example for me. Then what? What happens when we foul up big time?

When we fall off the in vs. of teeter totter, the sudden impact with terra firma is like the Law smacking us on our backside, pointing out our sin, and driving us to repentance. The Law’s job is to direct us to Christ, whose perfect works are our only hope. Then the Gospel speaks its healing word, “Be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven.” In Christ, we are forgiven and are set free. Our Baptism means we are already rescued from the world. Now we can be a blessing to those around us–not because we have to, but because we are free to, declaring what Jesus has done for us in word, tweet, and deed.

Scott Diekmann’s vocations include Christian, dad, son, husband, airline pilot, chocolate lover, and citizen of Puyallup, Washington. Email Scott at zanson@msn.com.

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The Thing about

E

Mary

By Sandra Ostapowich

veryone focuses on Mary as being the mother of our Lord, especially at Christmas time, and for good reason! God thought so much of women, so much of motherhood that He created us with the ability to bear children. He gave His Son a mother who would carry Him in her body, nurse Him at her breasts, change his dirty diapers, and protect and love Him as only a mother can. Pretty amazing!

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Mary’s faith is what has always astounded me. If some strange guy appeared out of nowhere and started talking to me, telling me that I’d suddenly be pregnant, but not by any man–by the Holy Spirit; that my son would be the Son of God, and reign forever on the throne of David, “Amen, may it be to me as you have said,” would hardly be my response.

But Mary is utterly unflappable! No matter what comes her way, she takes it all in stride. If a doubt crosses her mind, if she’s ever worried or scared, she doesn’t text all her friends and vent all her fears to them. I doubt she’d even put it on her Facebook status.

Pregnant outside of marriage? No fun, but no problem either. The rumors about what kind of girl she was have been flying for a while now.

They still continue today with some modern scholars. But God won’t have Joseph dump her or scandalize her any more than she already has been. He’s going to be good to her–especially in this. He’s going to do great things for her. He has to. Holy is His Name.

Just when she’s getting used to it all and getting ready for the big day, there’s a new twist.

Joseph has to go to Bethlehem and Mary has to go with him even though she’s literally about ready to give birth. It’s a really long journey, even if Joseph finds a donkey for her to ride on, like in the Christmas card pictures. Either way, her doctor wouldn’t approve.

Of course, that’s when things really start to get crazy! Her water breaks while they’re in Bethlehem. And all the hotels are completely booked because everyone and their uncle is in town for Caesar’s census. The best Joseph can find for them is a stall in a barn. Seriously?

But not even so much as a tweet from Mary to complain about her incompetent husband, the less than 5-star accommodations, or the pain of having to deal with it all during the throes of labor.

No doctor, no nurses, no latex gloves, no anti-bacterial soap, not even a reasonably clean bed to put the Baby in once He’s born. She has to lay Him in a manger. It’s a good thing she packed extra swaddling cloths! Just when she’s about to catch some rest after a really long, hard day, visitors show up. Dirty, smelly, low-class shepherds from the hills outside of Bethlehem. Come on, God! Can’t she even get a decent nap?

The shepherds tell Joseph and Mary about the miraculous visit from the angels and how they were told where to find the Baby.

The whole heavenly host had shown up in the skies to announce the birth of God incarnate to the shepherds, continuing their praises of Him on earth just like they do without ceasing in heaven.

Wait a second. These filthy men get the big angelic show and Mary gets the stinky shepherds? That’s so not fair!

“But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” (St. Luke 2:19 ESV) Mary just takes it all in. She treasures it all up–each precious moment. She doesn’t get negative. She doesn’t complain or whine. She doesn’t even get pouty. She’s not ungrateful or ungracious, for even a second. Why would she be? Mary actually believes what the angel told her.

She receives it all–that’s faith! She believes that she is one of God’s favorites! She knows without a doubt that everything that happens, no matter how unbelievable and unexpected, is a gift from her heavenly Father who loves her and only has good things for her. How could He not? He’s given this little Baby, cooing and gurgling in her arms, to save her from everything that could possibly harm her.

The thing about Mary is that it’s never really about Mary. Her faith is in Jesus, her receiving is from Jesus. Her salvation has been accomplished by Jesus. Yours, too. So be at peace. Trust that, in Christ, you are also one of God’s favorites and He has nothing but good for you. How could He not? He’s given you His Son. Pause for just a brief moment as you think about Jesus and contemplate Mary. She is the epitome of femininity, but not simply because she gives birth to Christ and is His mother. She is a miraculous example of faith, of receiving, of trusting, of submitting. On her own she’s just as full of doubts as the rest of us, but in Christ she is quiet and full of peace.

Mary is an example, not just for women, but for all of us who are the Bride of Christ.

Sandra Ostapowich is the Conference and Retreat Coordinator for Higher Things and served for nine years on the Higher Things Board of Directors.

She lives with her son in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she is also studying for her PhD in Missiology at Concordia Theological Seminary.

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Join us for the 2012 TWELVE Higher Things conferences.

Watch twelveHT.org for more information!

TWEL

Maryville, MO

Northwest Missouri State University July 3-6, 2012

Irvine, CA

Concordia University July 10-13, 2012

Brock University July 17-20, 2012

St. Catharines, ON

Visit

www.twelveHT.org or email conferences@higherthings.org for more details.

Twelve. The Lord does twelves. He had twelve tribes in Israel. He chose twelve men to be His disciples. Twelve is His Church’s number. His Church was created from His side—from the Blood and Water that flowed on Good Friday when He gave His life for His Bride, the Church. In the Blood and Water, in Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, is born the Church. On the Last Day, when the Lord speaks about His church, there is His Twelve once again—a thousand times over. Standing with the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world in the Book of Revelation are the baptized, His “old” Twelve and His “new” Twelve through all eternity.

Wake Forest University June 26-29, 2012

Winston-Salem, NC

2012 Higher Things Conferences

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2012

Join us for the 2012 TWELVE Higher Things conferences.

Watch twelveHT.org for more information!

TWELVE

Higher Things Conferences

Winston-Salem, NC Wake Forest University • June 26-29, 2012 Maryville, MO Northwest Missouri State University • July 3-6, 2012 Irvine, CA Concordia University • July 10-13, 2012 St. Catharines, ON Brock University • July 17-20, 2012

Why Higher Things?

We live in a culture of blurry religious distinctions and doit-yourself spirituality. Youth, especially, need solid ground that will nurture lasting Christian faith. Rather than treating youth as an adolescent subculture and confusing them with religious experiences that cannot be replicated at home, Higher Things believes in challenging them to learn the pure doctrine of the Christian faith. Teaching youth the same message that they hear at home will help them grow in the fullness of the Christian faith as they come to appreciate historic liturgical practice and its unique focus on God’s gifts of forgiveness, life and salvation for us, delivered in Word and Sacrament.

The Theme: Twelve

Twelve. The Lord does twelves. He had twelve tribes in Israel. He chose twelve men to be His disciples. Twelve is His Church’s number.

His Church was created from His side – from the Blood and Water that flowed on Good Friday when He gave His life for His Bride, the Church. In the Blood and Water, in Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, is born the Church. On the Last Day, when the Lord speaks about His church, there is His Twelve once again - a thousand times over.

Standing with the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world in the Book of Revelation are the baptized, His “old” Twelve and His “new” Twelve through all eternity.

Which makes 2012 the perfect year for the theme of Higher Things’ Conferences to be “Twelve”, centered upon His Church in the Last Days. Twelve is the Church’s number because it was the Lord’s number first.

Registration

Registration will open on November 1, 2011 and close on February 29, 2012 – or when a site reaches capacity, whichever happens first. We work very diligently to keep costs as low as possible while providing the best conferences we can – every year! The per-person rates below are based on the date your group’s registration fees are paid in full. Additional fees may apply for registrations and changes made after March 1, 2012.

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Winston-Salem, NC (June 26-29, 2012) Maryville, MO (July 3-6, 2012) Irvine, CA (July 10-13, 2012) St. Catharines, ON (July 17-20, 2012)

Nov. 1, ‘11 to Dec. 31, ‘11

Jan. 1, ‘12 to Feb. 29, ‘12

After March 1, ‘12

$300

$325

$350

$300

$325

$350

$300

$325

$350

$335

$360

$375

Your Registration Fee includes: Conference Programming (Planning, Catechesis, Worship, Entertainment) • Three (3) Nights of Housing (double capacity) • Nine (9) Meals • Conference Handbook • Daily Services Book • Conference T-Shirt

•

Not only can you register your group online at www.twelveHT.org, you can pay deposits and your balance online, too! All you need is a valid HT Online account. If you don’t have one yet, you can sign up for one at www.higherthings.org.

Age Requirements

Higher Things conferences are generally planned for high school-aged youth, but registrants may be any youth who have been confirmed prior to the conference, including college students. We recognize that the ages of confirmed youth vary from congregation to congregation, and just ask that if a group is bringing young people who are not yet in high school, the group leaders be prepared to provide additional supervision accordingly.

Chaperones

Higher Things requires a minimum of one (1) chaperone for every seven (7) youth in your group. Each group must be accompanied by at least one chaperone – one male adult for the male youth and/ or one female adult for the female youth in your group. Chaperones must be at least 21 years old at the time of registration and must also be approved by the group’s pastor for their role. All chaperones and other adults in a group must complete the registration process.

If you are unable to recruit the necessary number of chaperones from your congregation for your youth to attend a conference, Higher Things is happy to help you find other groups from your area who might be willing to share their chaperones with you.

Conference Capacities

The Twelve conference at the Wake Forest University in WinstonSalem, NC has a capacity of 600 registrants. The conference at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO has a capacity of 1,000 people. The conference at Concordia University in Irvine, CA has a capacity of 500 registrants. And the conference at Brock University in St. Catharine ON (Canada) has a very limited capacity of 200 and is reserved first for Canadian registrants and American registrants from states surrounding the Toronto/Niagara Falls area.

More information will be available to you very soon! But if you just can’t contain your curiosity and excitement, you may visit www.twelveHT.org or email conferences@higherthings.org to make sure you haven’t missed anything.

The Shepherds Who Adored Him Luke 2:16

The shepherds who adored Him

had scarcely caught their breath Before they knelt to worship

this conqueror of death Whose first throne was a manger

where lately cattle fed, To signify that Christ would die

to be our Living Bread.

When they had seen their Savior

the shepherds told abroad The wonders of this infant,

the swaddled Son of God, Whose graveclothes would not bind Him

on Resurrection morn— A guarantee that also we

in Christ shall be reborn.

Kathryn Ann Hill

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Indescribable Eternal and timeless, our God and our LORD. Unlimited power, I am that I am Forgiving and gracious and holy and just.

All knowing in all things, with glory so vast.

Authentic and faithful and perfect and true.

Benevolent always and merciful too.

In all places present, I am that I am.

Forever unchanging, our God and our LORD. MaryAnn Sundby Littleton, Colorado

All poetry has been reprinted with permission.

Welcome to our Higher Things Magazine poetry page.

Please submit your poetry for our consideration to submissions@higherthings.org

W I N T E R 2 0 1 1 _ 19

(PA) @ University of South Dakota @ University of Tennessee @ University of Tulsa (OK) @ University of Pittsburgh and Other Pittsburgh Area Colleges @ University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee @ University of Wisconsin—Superior @ University of Wyoming @ Valparaiso University (IN) @ Vanderbilt University (TN) @ Wright State University (OH)

@ Air Force Academy (CO) @ Ball State University (IN) @ Boise State University (ID) @ Brock University (Ontario) @ California Polytechnic State University @ Carthage College (WI) @ Central Michigan University @ Chico State University (CA) @ Colorado State University @ Cornell College (IA)

Let’s Get Started!

Tips for Developing Local Outreach to College Students

By Rev. Marcus Zill

Do you have a college nearby? Have you

ever wanted your church to start a campus ministry there? There are a lot of things to consider when starting a campus ministry from scratch. Here are just a few:

1 Purpose: Prayerful Consideration

Prayerfully consider what you want to begin and why. Do you want to primarily care for Lutheran college students? Witness to unbelievers on campus? Engage students, professors and others who are antagonistic toward the Gospel? Establishing clear goals and objectives will help you target your efforts.

Get to Know 2 Research: the College or University

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This ministry is difficult if you aren’t spending time on campus. So go there.

Get acquainted with the campus.

Take a tour. Spend time in the student union. Read the school newspaper.

Notice where students congregate and what they are doing. Eat in the school cafeteria. Drink coffee. Observe. Drink more coffee. Take notes.

Find out who goes to school there. Where are they from? Which academic disciplines are most important? Do most students live on campus or commute? What makes the college unique?

Get familiar with the organizational structure. What offices might you need to work with? Is there a campus

ministry association? If so, how do you become a part of it? Are there international students? If so, how many? Where are they from? What are their needs?

Investigate other religious student groups on campus. While you don’t necessarily want to duplicate what they teach or offer, you can learn from others.

Creating 3 Support: Congregational Awareness

While not everybody at your church will be directly involved, you will need support, encouragement and perhaps some financial assistance.

Find opportunities to share the vision for campus outreach and results of the research that you have done so that the congregation can see the possibilities. Explore what help your District or other church auxiliaries can offer. You might consider hosting a mission festival and inviting a seasoned campus pastor or worker to teach your congregation about the challenges, opportunities and joys of campus ministry. Most people involved in campus ministry would love to highlight what they are doing. Invite them and ask them to get familiar with your situation.

4 Recruitment: Students and Volunteers

Survey your student situation.

Finding, and/or developing, a core of 3-5 students will be essential. Gather them together and seek their ideas early on. They are the ones who will be most invested and the more they are involved the more ownership they will take.

Students will come and go, so you need volunteer help to provide stability and continuity. In addition to the pastor, who else might be on staff who can contribute? Do you have members at church who are faculty or staff on campus? What about alumni?

There might be other interested individuals beyond your congregation who may wish to help.

5 Locatedness: Creating Campus Presence

Students are more likely to attend activities they can walk to. Obviously, if your church is close to the campus, it will be easier for students to find you, but don’t let distance deter you.

Turf is important, but you might have to create it. Students, especially freshman, often feel dislocated. Having a common weekly meeting time or place on campus is helpful. This creates a sense of locatedness, consistency, and familiarity. When you can establish a presence on campus, then you will hopefully be able to draw them out toward your church.

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Duluth @ University of Minnesota—Morris @ University of Minnesota—Twin Cities @ University of North Carolina—Greensboro @ University of North Dakota @ University of Northern Colorado @ University of Northern Iowa @ University of Oklahoma @ University of Pittsburgh

) @ Dickinson State University (ND) @ George Mason University @ Grand Valley State University and Calvin College (MI) @ Harvard University and Other Boston Area Colleges @ Indiana University @ Indiana State University @ Lake Superior State University (MI) @ Mississippi State University

You have many tools available to communicate with college students and most of them are free. Flyers and newsletters are nice, but they may not be the best use of your time and resources. Take advantage of the social media available to you.

For starters, create a Facebook fan page for your student group. A web page or blog would also be helpful.

If your congregation has its own website, ask to get a prominent link for “college students” from the home page to your group’s Facebook or blog page. This will help link your church to your student group.

7

Recognition: Starting a Student Club or Organization

Registration on campus as an official organization is extremely important. Of course, every school is different. Check the dean of students’ office (sometimes called Student Life or Campus Life) to find out the guidelines for becoming an official student club or organization. This will necessitate student help. Typically, you will need to have 8-10 college student signatures and a student representative may need to attend an annual meeting. A constitution is usually required and often a faculty or staff advisor is needed.

Recognized student groups usually receive space for activities and can use school channels for publicizing their activities.

Setting up tables at official events and student orientation fairs is paramount in establishing a presence and introducing your campus group to students.

Recognition creates trust, builds

Care Packa

relationships, provides great opportunities to network, and opens doors to serve the greater campus community.

Connect with 8 Network: other Campus Ministries

Building relationships with others beyond your campus ministry is also important for mutual collaboration and support. Please check out our growing network of over 100 Christ on Campus chapters and consider becoming an official chapter so that others can seek to network with you.

Seek opportunities to do activities with other campus ministries, such as retreats or servant events. Students love these opportunities.

The chapter network is also helpful for those who are researching where they might consider going to college. Many students and parents want to know that there will be a faithful church that will care for their son or daughter.

If you have an interest in doing campus outreach, the perfect time to start is now. And we are here to help you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can help provide additional ideas, support, or resources to help you get started!

Rev. Marcus T. Zill is the Christ on Campus Executive for Higher Things and the campus pastor at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church & Campus Center in Laramie, WY. He is also serving as the chairman for a National Campus Ministry Conference in 2013 through the LCMS Office of National Mission. He can be reached at zill@higherthings.org.

Christ on Campus Care Packages include things such as popcorn, hot chocolate, and even a Starbucks Gift Card, as well as at least two books that every college student should read. They make the perfect gift for college students from parents, grandparents, church youth groups, LWML circles, and others. So dare to care about your college students while they are away from home and feed them the Higher Things way!

Cost for Spring Semester: $40 The ordering period for Spring Semester Care packages is now open through February 15, 2012!

Thank you to all who ordered Fall Semester Care Packages and those who pre-ordered Spring Semester Care Packages at the discounted rate.

Learn More and Order Online

http://higherthings.org/campus/carepackages

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Christ on Campus Is:

@ The campus ministry arm of Higher Things @ Pastors and laity interested in confessional Lutheran campus ministry @ A growing and developing network of 108 campus ministry chapters @ A great source for campus ministry resources @ Discussion forums for college students and campus ministry workers @ College retreats and service opportunities

Learn More About Christ On Campus and Our 108 Chapters:

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Contact:

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higherthings.org/campus.html

Rev. Marcus Zill Christ on Campus Executive zill@higherthings.org or (307) 745-5892

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@ North Carolina State University @ NW Oklahoma State University @ Pittsburg State University (KS) @ Rhode Island College and other RI Colleges @ Sam Houston State University (TX) @ San Francisco State University (CA) @ Slippery Rock State University (PA) @ South Dakota State University @ Stanford University (CA) @

6 Communication: Getting the Word out!

pus m a C n o t s i r h C ges

Texas State University (TX) @ University of Arizona @ University of California—Berkeley @ University of Colorado @ University of Connecticut—Avery Point and other CT Colleges @ University of Illinois @ University of Iowa @ University of Louisville @ University of Minnesota

When a Loved One Commits Suicide

By Rev. Peter Preus

Grieving for a loved one who has committed suicide in one sense

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is like grieving for any Christian who has died. You feel a deep sense of loss. You question “Why?” You wonder how you will cope without this parent, husband, wife or child. In another sense, grieving for a suicide is very different. You want to say,“He was a Christian!”“She was a Christian!” But how can you be so sure, when you were told not so long ago that those who commit suicide do not go to heaven? Until recently, many in the church believed that suicide was an unforgivable sin. The truth is, most people who take their own lives are suffering from a very serious illness known as severe depression.

Unfortunately, people today still make unfair judgments when depressed Christians die by suicide. People judge that this person killed himself because something was wrong with his faith. He didn’t follow through with given duties. He wasn’t hearing God’s Word. He wasn’t feeling what a Christian is supposed to feel. He was without hope.

Faith with No Follow Through You may have said it yourself, “He was a Christian! Why didn’t he act like it? He constantly skipped school. He spent days at a time in front of the television. He hardly ever got out of bed. Why?” Others may complain, “She was a Christian! Why didn’t she play the part? She didn’t seem to care that she was a daughter, sister, or Christian friend. She just kept to herself, hardly ever leaving home.”

Faith without Hearing Other survivors may question how this family member could have remained in the faith when he wasn’t hearing God’s Word. Even if you got this loved one to church, he got little or nothing out of the service. All he could think about was what a disappointment he was to everyone and how his grades were not what they should be. He kept talking about how worried he was that no college would accept him. He’d never get a decent job or amount to anything. How long can a person remain a Christian, you want to know, if he can’t concentrate on the Gospel and its promises?

Faith without Feeling Still others may have questions about how their loved one did respond to God’s Word. A parent recalls the last few Sunday mornings. “I know my daughter heard Pastor’s sermon. She simply wasn’t feeling anything when she listened. She believed the good news about her Savior was meant for someone else. No matter how much she wanted to, she could not apply the Gospel to herself.” Or a brother or sister remarks, “My sister told me she didn’t feel the same joy or enthusiasm she used to when she went to church.

The only thing she was feeling was worthlessness. Because of her illness she was sickened by what she felt she had become.” Can a Christian really feel this way?

Author’s Note: Are You Depressed?

If you or a friend is suffering from major depression or have had thoughts of suicide see your doctor immediately for a referral. Many Christians experiencing hopelessness have benefited either from medication or counseling or both. And make sure to see your pastor for comfort and strengthening from God’s Word.

Faith without Hope A final question that Christian families may ask following a suicide is why this loved one lost hope. Most believers expect their trying times will end eventually. They anticipate that in the near future God’s blessings will be more evident. They believe that God’s gracious purpose is at work in all things. However, this loved one simply gave up. And he made it very clear what he was thinking. “My life will never get better!”“My condition will never get better!”

“I’ll never be who I should be to others!”“Things will never be the same!” Can a Christian lose all hope?

Faith Saves Because It Receives If you’ve lost a friend or loved one to suicide, remember that everyone with severe depression experiences the loss of hope. Yes. This special person committed a costly sin and died because of it. Thankfully, “the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). Yes, depression can deprive us of the desire to be there for others. Depression can muddle one’s mind with senseless worries. It can strip from us the joys God intends to give us in his Word and snatch away one by one every hope and every dream. And yet, no matter how severe depression may be or how tragic a sin suicide is, neither has the power to snatch one out of the hand of one’s Savior (John 10:27) and rob one of one’s faith.

Christian faith, you see, is not to be equated with how successful one is in following through with one’s Christian duties. Christian faith is not based on one’s ability to hear, feel, or hope. Christian faith is a God-given trust in one’s Savior, and nothing more. That’s why Christian faith saves— not because it behaves a certain way and is visible to others but because it is God’s gift, and it receives the forgiveness Christ earned for us by his suffering and his death! Recall the words of Paul, “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law” (Romans 3:28). It matters not if we’re healthy or sick. In life and in death we receive by faith in Christ God’s verdict of “not guilty!”

Rev. Peter Preus is currently serving as pastor at The Lutheran Church of the Triune God in Brooklyn Center, MN. His book, And She Was a Christian: Why Do Believers Commit Suicide? has recently been published through Northwestern Publishing House.

He can be reached at revpeterpreus@triunegod.net.

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Planking or Cross Beaming?

By Rev. Philip Hoppe

I had heard of it.

But I truly did not believe it was anything other than an odd game created by a few web weirdoes. That was until I saw the pictures on one of my youth’s Facebook page. What am I talking about? Planking. For the uninitiated, let me explain.

Well, let’s have Wikipedia explain: “Planking is an activity consisting of lying face down in an unusual or incongruous location. The hands must touch the sides of the body and having a photograph of the participant taken and posted on the internet is an integral part of the game.” Yes, you lay flat in a spot not meant to support such a posture, position your hands at your side and then have a friend grab their smart phone. One upload later, you can declare that you, too, have been planking.

This odd idea has become the latest craze. It turns any boring location into an exciting planking studio.

People are planking on everything from playground equipment to street lights to tombstones. They get set, take the picture and then share it with everyone. It has been done all over the world.

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And the point of all this?

Nothing. There is no real reason offered as to why this game was ever started. Oh, it’s harmless fun (unless you fall) but it is pointless fun. Perhaps Lutheran youth should start a new craze. Forget hands by the side. Plank with your hands extended perpendicular to your body.

Then people would at least have something worth considering. If pictures started appearing of people all over the world in the shape of a cross (or more properly a corpus like the body of Christ one would find on a crucifix) maybe people would wonder what that was all about.

Then we could tell them that there is no place in the entire world that has not been redeemed by

Christ. Romans 8:19-21 says, “For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.” Yes, every last park, bridge, and you-nameit location is part of the creation that has been groaning ever since the Fall into sin in the Garden of Eden. It is part of the world which will be redeemed fully on the last day when all the benefits of Christ’s death and resurrection will be brought to bear on all creation.

Planking with arms extended might be a small way to start a conversation about the God who redeems all things through the extended arms of His Son, Jesus. God redeems not just inanimate objects but also the very animated people we might be talking to about these odd photos.

Maybe a conversation started over something as ridiculous as planking could end up being a conversation about the Word made flesh. And if so, then this pointless fad might end up having some redemptive value after all.

Rev. Philip Hoppe serves in Ellsworth, Kansas and is a father to five great kids. Email him at pastor@ihoppe.com or check out his podcast at http://commonsalvation.com.

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Here’s an Idea...

Give the gift that keeps on giving: Higher Things Magazine Printed or Online Subscription Share Higher Things with those you love. We offer the same great Christ-centered, thought-provoking, catechetically-focused content both electronically and in printed form. See page 31 for subscription information, visit www.higherthings.org/magazine/subscriptions, or call us at 1-888-448-2359 and get that Christmas list under control!

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Join the Club!

The Dare to Be Lutheran Club is our monthly or annual giving program. The DTBL Club is a simple, cost-effective way to assist parents, congregations, and pastors in cultivating and promoting a Lutheran identity among youth.

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Dare Double Dare Double Dog Dare $10 Per Month or $100 Annually

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news and notes. To join go online at www.higherthings.org/support and sign up, e-mail development@higherthings.org with questions, or send a letter to: Dare to Be Lutheran Club, P.O. Box 155, Holt, MO 64048. Welcome to the club!

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Your contribution of $1500 lets you choose from these options: 1. Provide scholarship monies for Lutheran youth desiring to attend a conference but are in need of financial assistance to participate OR 2. One free conference registration for yourself or a family member.

HIGHER THINGS

Reflections Higher Things is pleased to provide free daily devotions, called “Reflections,” for youth and their families. These Reflections are centered on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and are based upon each day’s texts from the weekly readings in the one-year lectionary and from Luther’s Small Catechism.

You can download and print a seasonal Reflections booklet, subscribe to the daily Reflections and receive them in your e-mail box or connect to an RSS Feed and Podcast by visiting: www.higherthings.org/reflections.html

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Thy Kingdom Come

By Rev. William M. Cwirla

From Lutheran Service Book, Come, My Soul, with Every Care #779 (st. 2) Text and tune: Public domain.

“Thy kingdom come.”

Really? Do we want that to happen? Really? Do we want to be ruled over, reigned over, lorded over? After all, we live in a democracy, not a kingdom. We have elected officials who do our bidding. We aren’t servants of a king. So what’s with this kingdom talk?

The King is the one who teaches this petition. He teaches us to pray to His Father and our Father, “Father, let your kingdom come.” Rule over us! Be our King! Make us your subjects! Why? Because the King is good and gracious, forgiving and merciful.

Think of the images of King Jesus in the Gospel. Riding into Jerusalem atop a borrowed donkey—a vehicle of peace. Crowned with thorns. Enthroned on a cross. Dying for His people. Waging holy war for us and for our salvation. A beggar King in a kingdom of beggars.

That’s the sort of king Jesus is. Not like the kings of this world.

His kingdom is not of this world, although people mistakenly try to establish the kingdom of God on the earth. We don’t; He does. Subjects don’t establish the kingdom, the King does.

And this King does it by dying and rising.

In this world, God’s kingdom appears hidden like seed buried in soil, like yeast stirred into a lump of dough, like treasure hidden in a field.

It seems insignificant compared to the kingdoms of this world, as insignificant as a tiny mustard seed. It’s vulnerable to attack. The devil can attack it like birds gobbling up seed off the pavement. The old evil foe can sow weeds among the kingdom’s wheat. Yet this seemingly small and weak kingdom is literally “to die for,” like the unique pearl of great price, and in the end, the kingdom triumphs because the King has already conquered by His cross.

In God’s kingdom the first are last and the last are first, so don’t bother lining up to boast. Eleventh hour hires get the same day’s wage as those who have worked the whole day. This is a kingdom of grace, of gifts given and

received, not wages earned. Everything comes “without any merit or worthiness in us,” all thanks to Jesus the King.

How does God’s kingdom come?

In two ways—now and not yet. The kingdom of God comes to us now when the Word of God is preached into our ears and the Holy Spirit works faith in our hearts. In our Baptism, in the preached Word, in the Supper of Jesus’ Body and Blood, the Father answers this petition by bestowing on us kingdom blessings and benefits: forgiveness, life, and salvation. The not yet kingdom comes to us finally at the appearing of the King in His glory on the Last Day and the raising of our bodies from the grave. Right now, the kingdom is by faith; it is not yet by sight. Now the kingdom is heard and believed; soon it will be seen.

The King is reflected in His subjects.

To live under King Jesus in His kingdom is to do His goodness and mercy to others. Your love for others does not get you into the kingdom nor does it keep you in the kingdom. Your love is the love of the King for you reflected to others.

It is His goodness and mercy at work in you. King Jesus has freed you from slavery to Sin, Death and Law, which means you are free to love and to do His goodness and mercy in the world.

Martin Luther emphasized how great a petition this is. Imagine being invited into the presence of a very wealthy and powerful man who said, “Ask anything of me and I will give it to you,” and all you ask for is a bowl of soup or a crust of bread. That man would be insulted. Jesus is inviting, yes urging, His disciples to “think big” with their petitions. Go ahead! Dare to ask for the kingdom!

Thou art coming to a King, Large petitions with thee bring.

For His grace and power are such None can ever ask too much.

(Lutheran Service Book #779) What gets in the way of all this is our unbelief. We barely trust God with the little temporal things. We hardly ask God for the things we need for our bodies and lives much less recognize that all that we have is a gift from God. We worry more about what we will eat, what we will wear, what songs are on our iPods, what cell phones we have, whom we will date or not date. And in our unbelief, we forget the words of Jesus, “But seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well. ” (Matthew 6:33).

So what are we praying for when we pray, “Thy kingdom come?” We are praying for the Word, that it would have its killing-and-making-alive way with us, that the Spirit would work faith in our hearts, that the old Adam in us would be killed and Christ would be raised in us, that we would come to the full joy of the freedom that is ours as citizens of heaven and subjects of King Jesus. We are praying that King Jesus would come, now through Word and Sacrament, and soon by His appearing.

Jesus died and rose to give us the kingdom. How could we ask for anything less? And if He promises to give us the kingdom, how will He not give us all that we need in this life?

Our Father in heaven...

Thy kingdom come!

Rev. William M. Cwirla is the pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hacienda Heights, California, and the President of Higher Things.

He can be reached at wcwirla@gmail.com.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 1 _ 29

Talking to Your Non-Lutheran Friends About Jesus A Higher Things Bible Study Introduction: As discussed in the article (pages 8-9), when we talk to our non-Lutheran friends about topics connected to faith and religion, our goal is to direct all of our conversation back to Jesus and His Word. This Bible Study uses the outline of the article to examine the topic of “The Lord’s Supper” and how we direct all talk about it back to Christ and His Words.

1

Have you ever discussed the Lord’s Supper with your non-Lutheran friends? What do they say about it? How do they object when you say it is the true Body and Blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sins? What other differences are there?

2

First Question: What Word of God applies? What Scriptures directly address the Sacrament of the Altar and what Jesus gives us there?

Read Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25. What does Jesus say the bread is?

The cup? For what purpose is it given?

3

Second Question: Does it glorify me or Jesus? Read 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 11:26-30. Is the Sacrament of the Altar about Jesus or about us in some way?

4 5 6 7

Third Question: Is the forgiveness of sins central? Recall Matthew 26:28. Read Exodus 12:21-23 and John 1:29.

Fourth Question: How does it connect and relate to Jesus?

Read John 6:32-58. How is the Lord’s Supper all about Jesus?

The Lord’s Supper is central to our life as Christians. How can we convey that importance to our non-Lutheran friends?

H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 30

There are certainly many other aspects of the Lord’s Supper that could be discussed (such as whether we could use grape juice or why we have closed Communion). Be sure to ask your pastor how you can best answer these objections and point others to Jesus in discussing the Lord’s Supper.

To access the Leader’s Guide for this study, as well as Bible studies for articles in this and other issues as part of an HTOnline subscription, point your browser to: http://higherthings.org/magazine/biblestudies.html.

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H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 32

Twelve. The Lord does twelves. He had twelve tribes in Israel. He chose twelve men to be His disciples. Twelve is His Church’s number. His Church was created from His side—from the Blood and Water that flowed on Good Friday when He gave His life for His Bride, the Church. In the Blood and Water, in Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, is born the Church. On the Last Day, when the Lord speaks about His church, there is His Twelve once again—a thousand times over. Standing with the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world in the Book of Revelation are the baptized, His “old” Twelve and His “new” Twelve through all eternity.

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IN NOT OF A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY WINTER 2011 1. In his article, Mr. Diekmann directs us to Jesus’ “High Priestly Prayer.” Read John 17:6-11. Where had Jesus’ disciples been, previously? In what way are they now taken “out of” the world? In what way do they yet remain “in” the world?

Like us, the Twelve were in this world of sin. Conceived and born in sin (Psalm 51) they were thoroughly corrupted by it, as are we. But Jesus takes them “out of” the world to be with Him. They are seated with Him in His heavenly realm (Ephesians 2:6). You are, too!

Yet for a time, they, and we yet struggle in this world. So Jesus prays for them, and for you, to preserve us all steadfast in the true faith.

2. Our attention is also directed by Mr. Diekmann to 1 John 2:15. What is the great danger we face as we live in this world? How does the world entice us away from God? Who is it that is really luring our love away?

It is the Devil who is the ruler and prince of this world (1 John 5:19, John 12:31). He uses the enticing things in the world to lure us away from Christ. He hopes to get us to forget that the promises of this world are fleeting, and that here, moths, rust, and decay destroy. In the end, this entire world will be destroyed. The great danger is that those who cling in love to the things of this world will be likewise destroyed.

3. How ought we to view our residency in this world, then? Read Hebrews 11:13 and 1 Peter 2:11. What does it mean that we are “strangers” in this world? How are we to view ourselves as “aliens” while we live on this planet earth?

As a Christian you indeed feel “strange” at times. Your words and actions may differ from those at your school, on your sports team, or in your club. Perhaps you stand out like a sore thumb. This is because you know that your time on earth is only temporary, and that you won’t be here for long, in the grand scheme of things. So instead of getting “attached” to the empty promises of this world, your hope is always elsewhere…

4. Where is your hope now directed? Read Ephesians 2:19 and Philippians 3:20. Where do you now, already live? In Whose family do you now belong? Where is your true, lasting home?

What an encouragement to hear that heaven is not just your eventual destination, but is your home now! Your room is there in the heavenly mansion, prepared for you by Jesus!

In Holy Baptism, God Himself adopted you into His heavenly family. His name and His house are yours, now! You are a resident of heaven, with all the honors and privileges of citizenship! The “communion of saints” means you worship together with them in the Eucharist!

5. So, how do we deal with the “not-yet-ness” of being strangers and pilgrims down here for a time, yet? Read Matthew 6:13. Are you able to keep yourself away from temptations? Just how does God lead you from them so as to deliver you from the evil one?

The temptations are many and varied while we remain in this world for a time. But the way of the law is useless to lead us from temptation; in fact, it only increases sinning!

(Romans 5:20) If your Mom says,“Don’t touch those cookies cooling on the counter,” all you want to do is snitch one. But God alone leads us from temptation by keeping the devil, the world, and our flesh from getting to us.

6. Along with Mr. Diekmann we must also confesses that we fail, time and again, to resist the temptations to “love the world” and its sinful pleasures. Read 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. What can be done when we fail?

Whether it is flirting with another’s boy/girl friend, or downloading that rated-PA song, we give in to temptations. First, know that you don’t have to “just give in” to them. God is with you, providing either a “way out” or strength to withstand it. Yet if you do finally sin, you have an Advocate with the Father, Christ Jesus, Who has already been punished for your sin at the cross. Confess that sin, and receive absolution privately from your Pastor, as from Christ Himself.

7. Just how are you to act toward others while you remain on earth, temporarily? Read Ephesians 6:11-17. How does God fully cover you for battle against temptation? What is the weapon God gives you to wield?

God has clothed you well for Satan’s assaults. You may stand firm, faithful in all your actions. And the words which God gives you are not your own, but His as a potent weapon. So you have nothing to fear as you boldly and confidently speak & act as God gives you to do in your vocations. Each day you remain on earth is a God-given opportunity for Him to use you as a blessing to your neighbor.

9. Pray the following prayer: “Almighty God, because You know that we, of ourselves, have no strength, keep us both outwardly and inwardly that we may be defended from all adversities that may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

www.higherthings.org

IN NOT OF A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY WINTER 2011 1. In his article, Mr. Diekmann directs us to Jesus’ “High Priestly Prayer.” Read John 17:6-11. Where had Jesus’ disciples been, previously? In what way are they now taken “out of” the world? In what way do they yet remain “in” the world?

2. Our attention is also directed by Mr. Diekmann to 1 John 2:15. What is the great danger we face as we live in this world? How does the world entice us away from God? Who is it that is really luring our love away?

3. How ought we to view our residency in this world, then? Read Hebrews 11:13 and 1 Peter 2:11. What does it mean that we are “strangers” in this world? How are we to view ourselves as “aliens” while we live on this planet earth?

4. Where is your hope now directed? Read Ephesians 2:19 and Philippians 3:20. Where do you now, already live? In Whose family do you now belong? Where is your true, lasting home?

5. So, how do we deal with the “not-yet-ness” of being strangers and pilgrims down here for a time, yet? Read Matthew 6:13. Are you able to keep yourself away from temptations? Just how does God lead you from them so as to deliver you from the evil one?

6. Along with Mr. Diekmann we must also confesses that we fail, time and again, to resist the temptations to “love the world” and its sinful pleasures. Read 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. What can be done when we fail?

7. Just how are you to act toward others while you remain on earth, temporarily? Read Ephesians 6:11-17. How does God fully cover you for battle against temptation? What is the weapon God gives you to wield?

8. Pray the following prayer: “Almighty God, because You know that we, of ourselves, have no strength, keep us both outwardly and inwardly that we may be defended from all adversities that may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

www.higherthings.org

TALKING TO YOUR NON-LUTHERAN FRIENDS ABOUT JESUS A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY LEADER'S GUIDE Introduction: As discussed in the article (pp.8-9), when we talk to our non-Lutheran friends about topics connected to faith and religion, our goal is to direct all of our conversation back to Jesus and His Word. This Bible Study uses the outline of the article to examine the topic of “The Lord's Supper” and how we direct all talk about it back to Christ and His Words.

1. Have you ever discussed the Lord's Supper with your non-Lutheran friends? What do they say about it? How do they object when you say it is the true Body and Blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sins? What other differences are there?

Answers will vary but most Protestants will say that the bread and wine are just symbols of Jesus' Body and Blood and that Jesus isn't really present in the Supper. Other areas of contention might be the use of grape juice instead of wine or the practice in Roman Catholic churches of people only receiving the Body of Christ and not the blood. Discussion might also arise as to how often the Lord's Supper is celebrated, who can administer the Sacrament (laypeople? women?), and who can receive the Sacrament (open and closed communion).

Roman Catholics might call the Lord's Supper an “obligation” or a “sacrifice” and describe how they are required to receive it so often.

2. First Question: What Word of God applies? What Scriptures directly address the Sacrament of the Altar and what Jesus gives us there? Read Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:2224; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25. What does Jesus say the bread is? The cup?

For what purpose is it given?

What is common in all four passages is that Jesus says of the bread, “This is my body” and of the cup, “This is my blood of the New Testament/Covenant.” Jesus says that He gives these “for the forgiveness of sins.” (Note that the Words of Institution we hear in the liturgy are a combination of all these passages.) The Words of Jesus make it clear that, as the One who is true God and true man, what He gives is what He says. It is His Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins.

3. Second Question: Does it glorify me or Jesus? Read 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 11:26-30. Is the Sacrament of the Altar about Jesus or about us in some way?

Paul's words point us to the fact that what is given is Christ's Body and Blood. The “communion” we have is that we are all united not by our taking the Lord's Supper but by what it gives: the Body and Blood of Jesus. To say that the Lord's Supper is just an act of obedience or an “obligation” denies that it is a gift which Jesus gives us for our salvation. In fact, Paul makes it clear that to deny what is given in the Lord's Supper is to sin--not against bread and wine--but against Christ Himself!

4. Third Question: Is the forgiveness of sins central? Recall Matthew 26:28. Read Exodus 12:21-23 and John 1:29.

Jesus' own words make perfectly clear that His Supper is for the forgiveness of sins. The Scriptures teach that Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. His sacrifice on Calvary is distributed to His people in His Supper. On the cross, the Lamb is sacrificed for our sins and our salvation is accomplished. In the Supper, that forgiveness and salvation are delivered and given to us. This is important because if the Sacrament were about us and our obedience, there would be no gift, no confidence in how we are with the Lord. But because the Supper is Christ's and gives the forgiveness of sins, it is a gift that gives us a confidence that we are right with God for Jesus' sake.

5. Fourth Question: How does it connect and relate to Jesus? Read John 6:32-58. How is the Lord's Supper all about Jesus?

From above, the connection with the Old Testament Lamb of God should be obvious. The Passover Lamb was killed and then eaten. Just so, the Lamb of God dies and gives us His flesh and blood to eat and drink. Jesus speaks in John 6 about eating His flesh and blood and thus eating the “Bread of Life.” By feasting on His Flesh and Blood, Jesus says that He will live in us and we in Him. He will raise us up on the Last Day. Everything that Jesus says about eating and drinking His Body and Blood shows us that this Sacrament is all about Jesus and what He gives us.

6. The Lord's Supper is central to our life as Christians. How can we convey that importance to our non-Lutheran friends?

When discussing the Lord's Supper with those who disagree about it, it is important to always point them back to what Jesus says about it. Connections with the Old Testament Passover Lamb and other sacrifices can certainly be made as these all point to Jesus. Ultimately, Jesus gives us His Body and Blood not to test our obedience or just to give us an opportunity to “remember” Him as if He's not here. He gives us His Body and Blood and is really and truly present in the Sacrament so that our sins are forgiven and we have the confidence of our salvation and everlasting life.

7. There are certainly many other aspects of the Lord's Supper that could be discussed (such as whether we could use grape juice or why we have closed Communion). Be sure to ask your pastor how you can best answer these objections and point others to Jesus in discussing the Lord's Supper.

www.higherthings.org

TALKING TO YOUR NON-LUTHERAN FRIENDS ABOUT JESUS A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY LEADER'S GUIDE Introduction: As discussed in the article (pp.8-9), when we talk to our non-Lutheran friends about topics connected to faith and religion, our goal is to direct all of our conversation back to Jesus and His Word. This Bible Study uses the outline of the article to examine the topic of “The Lord's Supper” and how we direct all talk about it back to Christ and His Words.

1. Have you ever discussed the Lord's Supper with your non-Lutheran friends? What do they say about it? How do they object when you say it is the true Body and Blood of Christ for the forgiveness of sins? What other differences are there?

2. First Question: What Word of God applies? What Scriptures directly address the Sacrament of the Altar and what Jesus gives us there? Read Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:2224; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25. What does Jesus say the bread is? The cup?

For what purpose is it given?

3. Second Question: Does it glorify me or Jesus? Read 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 11:26-30. Is the Sacrament of the Altar about Jesus or about us in some way?

4. Third Question: Is the forgiveness of sins central? Recall Matthew 26:28. Read Exodus

12:21-23 and John 1:29.

5. Fourth Question: How does it connect and relate to Jesus? Read John 6:32-58. How is the Lord's Supper all about Jesus?

6. The Lord's Supper is central to our life as Christians. How can we convey that importance to our non-Lutheran friends?

7. There are certainly many other aspects of the Lord's Supper that could be discussed (such as whether we could use grape juice or why we have closed Communion). Be sure to ask your pastor how you can best answer these objections and point others to Jesus in discussing the Lord's Supper.

www.higherthings.org

JOY: THE SERIOUS BUSINESS OF NARNIA A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY WINTER 2011 1. Rev. Schuldheisz notes how C.S. Lewis teaches the creation as Aslan singing Narnia into existence.

See Genesis 1:1-3 and John 1:1-3. What means did God use to create in the beginning? Who was this “Word” by which God created everything?

Aslan is the Christ-figure in the Chronicles of Narnia. He is portrayed as Jesus, Whose very voice causes things to be. Jesus is this Word, Who speaks all things into being. But more than that, He is both God and as the Word-become-flesh, also man. Jesus is not a lion like Aslan, but a human being like you. He is both God and man to broker peace between God and you by His death on the cross!

2. Rev. Schuldheisz directs our attention to the “joy” throughout the Chronicles of Narnia. Read John 15:9-13. Whose joy is it? How is Christ’s joy connected to His love? How is His joy also made full in you?

The joy is Christ‘s, first and foremost. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, laying down His life for you, His friend. His agape love for you meant His death in exchange for your life. At the cross, this joy is now transferred to you! There it is made full. His love for you is manifest, not only in what He has already done for you (forgiving and saving you) but also in how He continues to love others through you. It is His joy and yours now to be His useful instrument of love.

3. There doesn’t seem to be a lot of joy in this world, which Pastor Schuldheisz describes as a “nightmare world” full of “sin, death and the devil.” Read Matthew 5:10-12 and James 1:2-4. What can Christian disciples expect in this world? How are we to think about such challenges? Why? Not all your difficulties are “crosses” that you bear as a Christian. But when you are persecuted for your faith, or when you suffer trials because of your Christian morality and ethics, this is to be expected in this world, whose prince is the devil. Yet, Jesus calls us to rejoice. You should consider it joy to be treated as the great prophets of old were, because that means you are made faithful by God. In addition, you know that you are still a work in progress, and as God tests your faith, He causes it to be steadfast, and He Who has begun this good work in you, brings it to completion in the end.

4. There is always a sense of “more” in Narnia. Read Luke 6:38 and John 10:10. How is Christian forgiveness described by Jesus? How does He describe the gift of life He bestows? Just how does one measure the gifts which God gives to those He loves?

God‘s forgiveness is over-flowing. That‘s what the order of the 5 th petition of the Lord‘s prayer is all about. God forgives you, so that you have an abundance of His forgiving love by which you may forgive others. Likewise, the life He bestows to you is not just a “full life” of 80 or 90 years. It is an over-full, abundant life that lasts forever! While the Law uses measurements (how many sins I have committed), the Gospel doesn‘t, because there is no end to the heavenly blessings which God bestows to His beloved children.

5. Rev. Schuldheisz directs our attention to 1 Corinthians 5:19 Read verse 20 as well. How did C.S. Lewis seek to be a sort of ambassador of reconciliation through His books? What better way is there for you to be reconciled to God? What “ambassador” does God use to reconcile you?

C.S. Lewis was a member of an informal Christian group called the “Inklings” (along with J.R.R. Tolkien) looking for ways to promote his new-found Christian faith. The Chronicles of Narnia are a product of this endeavor. But you have the word of God taught in its truth and purity each Sunday, and the sacraments administered according to Christ’s directives in church. Your pastor is both honored and privileged to be Jesus’ ambassador to you, that the means of grace he delivers to you may reconcile you to God and keep you reconciled to Him. 6. Rev. Schuldheisz reminds us that the Divine Service is indeed a bit of “heaven“ here on earth. Read Matthew 18:20 and Matthew 28:20. What does Jesus promise to those whom the Spirit gathers in His name? What did Jesus promise to His disciples before He ascended into heaven? How does Jesus keep this promise to be with us, in a very real way?

Where two or more are gathered in Jesus’ name (meaning: according to His good and gracious plan) Jesus promises to be present there. In fact, Jesus promises to be with His disciples all the days. He accomplishes this in many ways. Jesus’ spirit dwells in your heart, because you are baptized in His name. His voice comes alive in the preaching of the word, proclaiming the gospel of His forgiveness for you from the cross. His very Body and Blood come to feed you in the Lord’s Supper, where Jesus is really present for your forgiveness, life and salvation.

7. In comparing Narnia to the “real world” C.S. Lewis writes “knowing me for a little, you may know me better there.” Read John 5:36-39. Just how do we know Jesus for Who He is, in this world? What actions bear witness to Jesus at work here? What words confirm the testimony of Who Jesus really is?

We know Jesus better in this world when, by faith, we recognize what He does here. Jesus forgives sins through the mouths of Pastors in Holy Absolution. Jesus saves souls through the cleansing of Holy Baptism. Jesus nourishes believers with His body & blood in Holy Communion. Jesus’ love is proclaimed through the message of the Holy Gospel, from the Holy Scriptures. These words and actions of Jesus Himself are how we know Jesus is busy here, loving us.

8. Finally, Rev. Schuldheisz reminds us of the wonder of Aslan’s return in the Chronicles of Narnia.

Read Luke 21:27-28 and Acts 1:10-11. How is Jesus going to come back on the last day? Should we be scared because He’s coming back to judge us? Why not?

Just as Jesus ascended up into the sky, so, too, will He return in a cloud, with His almighty power and the glory of the Godhead. You have no need to fear the judgment of that day, since Christ has already been condemned in your place at the cross. He has suffered your blame and shame in full, already. So He comes back as your Redemption, your “thumbs up” judgment, to receive you, body, soul, mind and spirit into the heavenly realms!

Let us pray: Merciful Lord, cast the bright beams of Your light upon Your church, and grant us ever to rejoice in the saving light of Your gospel and to spread it to the uttermost parts of the earth; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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JOY: THE SERIOUS BUSINESS OF NARNIA A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY WINTER 2011 1. Rev. Schuldheisz notes how C.S. Lewis teaches the creation as Aslan singing Narnia into existence.

See Genesis 1:1-3 and John 1:1-3. What means did God use to create in the beginning? Who was this “Word” by which God created everything?

2. Rev. Schuldheisz directs our attention to the “joy” throughout the Chronicles of Narnia. Read John 15:9-13. Whose joy is it? How is Christ’s joy connected to His love? How is His joy also made full in you?

3. There doesn’t seem to be a lot of joy in this world, which Pastor Schuldheisz describes as a “nightmare world” full of “sin, death and the devil.” Read Matthew 5:10-12 and James 1:2-4. What can Christian disciples expect in this world? How are we to think about such challenges? Why?

4. There is always a sense of “more” in Narnia. Read Luke 6:38 and John 10:10. How is Christian forgiveness described by Jesus? How does He describe the gift of life He bestows? Just how does one measure the gifts which God gives to those He loves?

5. Rev. Schuldheisz directs our attention to 1 Corinthians 5:19 Read verse 20 as well. How did C.S. Lewis seek to be a sort of ambassador of reconciliation through His books? What better way is there for you to be reconciled to God? What “ambassador” does God use to reconcile you?

6. Rev. Schuldheisz reminds us that the Divine Service is indeed a bit of “heaven“ here on earth. Read Matthew 18:20 and Matthew 28:20. What does Jesus promise to those whom the Spirit gathers in His name? What did Jesus promise to His disciples before He ascended into heaven? How does Jesus keep this promise to be with us, in a very real way?

7. In comparing Narnia to the “real world” C.S. Lewis writes “knowing me for a little, you may know me better there.” Read John 5:36-39. Just how do we know Jesus for Who He is, in this world? What actions bear witness to Jesus at work here? What words confirm the testimony of Who Jesus really is?

8. Finally, Rev. Schuldheisz reminds us of the wonder of Aslan’s return in the Chronicles of Narnia.

Read Luke 21:27-28 and Acts 1:10-11. How is Jesus going to come back on the last day? Should we be scared because He’s coming back to judge us? Why not?

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THY KINGDOM COME A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY Winter 2011 1. Rev. Cwirla‘s article is really like a Bible study in itself. But we may expound on his insights by first considering the many and various aspects of a king’s reign… Just what is a king? How does he normally rule? In what ways do people misconstrue God’s reign as though it were the same as that of earthly kings?

A king (not just a figurehead) rules absolutely. He says “jump” and his subjects are expected to answer “How high?” He orders them to pay taxes, join his army, or serve him in his kingdom, and they do it, or they are punished severely. But God does not rule with such an iron fist as earthly monarchs. To view God’s kingdom that way wrongly assumes that the Lord is all Law in His rule. He isn’t. In fact, God rules His kingdom, not with “rules” we must obey, but with His love!

2. Rev. Cwirla describes Jesus’ unique Kingship as being a “beggar king.” Read John 18:36-37. How would an earthly king respond to being arrested and put on trial for crimes he didn’t commit? Yet how does Jesus respond? How does Jesus describe His purpose as a King?

A king of this world would command his subjects to defend him, at all costs. Yet Jesus tells Peter to put away his sword (John 18:10-11). He is willing to do the time for a crime He didn’t commit. He does this to bear witness to the truth that He had been born into this world to die for the sake of sinners (Romans 5:6-8). Jesus is not a king by virtue of all the riches He possesses for Himself, as much as it is about all the riches He is willing to give away to you, by His grace.

3. Just how does a person get into Jesus’ kingdom? Read John 3:3-8. What does it mean to be born again/anew/from above? What occurs when someone is born? How is one born of water and the Spirit? What is really happening here that allows you to enter into God’s kingdom?

One must be “born again” to enter Jesus‘ kingdom. This does not mean you have to have some “aha“ experience in which you commit your life to Him. You can’t do anything to “decide” to go into God’s kingdom by your efforts. This rebirth is God’s doing, making you reborn “of Him” as your Father. This occurs only in Baptism, where the waters cleanse you from all your sin, and the Spirit of God gives you a new name, God’s Triune Name, as your family name from that day forward. God adopts you into His royal family on that day. You become a prince or princess of the King on your Baptismal Birthday!

4. Just what kind of kingdom is this? Read Philippians 3:20 and Romans 14:17. Where is Jesus’ kingdom? What sort of things are we praying for when we ask for the Father’s kingdom to come to us?

This kingdom is heavenly. Since your baptism, you are given a new citizenship in heaven. Jesus is preparing your room in the heavenly mansion as you read this! (John 14:1-6) So when you pray “Thy Kingdom Come,” you aren’t asking for God to give you good weather, a great summer job, a new friend, or any other temporal blessing of this world, but for the Spiritual, eternal blessings of heaven!

5. Why does Jesus often teach about His kingdom in parables? Read Matthew 20:1-16. Do such stories

make much sense when they are considered according to the ways of this world? How does Jesus use kingdom parables to teach about the unique heavenly kingdom? How do you understand these stories?

Kingdom parables are often used by Jesus to show the topsy-turvy nature of heaven, as contrasted with the ways of this earth. In this world, folks expect to be paid an hourly wage. In heaven, it matters not to God if you work a lot or a very little, because His kingdom is all about His generosity, not your merit.

So if you try to understand such parables with only your “common sense,” you will find that worldly wisdom fails to comprehend very well. But if you remember the King is in each Kingdom parable, then you will look for Jesus and His generous, gracious love, and recognize it there, by faith.

6. How do we recognize Jesus’ kingdom as it comes to us now? Read Luke 17:20-21. Can you point to the location of “heaven on earth” on a map? Where is God‘s kingdom? How does it get there?

Your earthly eyes can’t perceive God’s kingdom where it comes to you today. For that, you need the new eyes of faith which God has given you as a new creation in Christ at Baptism. What your physical eyes see as simple water, faith recognizes as God-in-action cleansing you from your sin! What your earthly eyes see as mere bread and wine, your faith discerns as the very body & blood given and shed for your forgiveness. Your natural eyes see a robed man talking, but faith views his voice box as Jesus’ Own, proclaiming His love to you. So God’s kingdom is “in you” as it comes into you in word and sacrament.

7. Since God created everybody, aren’t all people already part of God’s kingdom? Read Colossians 1:13-14. Who else rules over a rival “realm?” What is this prince’s domain today? What is necessary in order for you to be rescued from his dark rule so that you can dwell in Jesus’ kingdom?

All are conceived and born into this world as sinners. (Psalm 51:5) This sin separated you from God and His kingdom. As a sinner, you were born into this dark world, whose prince is the devil. He once claimed you to be his own. But since you have been baptized, Jesus has rescued you from Satan‘s evil kingdom, and has transferred you to his heavenly realm!

8. Rev. Cwirla quotes the hymn stanza, “none could ever ask too much.” Read 1 Peter 1:3-4. How does one normally measure the wealth of a particular kingdom? Can you measure the riches of the kingdom of heaven? Why not?

An earthly kingdom adds up all the tax revenue in the king’s coffers to determine its wealth. That doesn’t work in God‘s kingdom. His blessings are everlasting, and never run out! One of my professors once taught us, “If you can measure it, it must be of the Law. If it is something God gives without measure, it must be of the Gospel of His grace.”

Let us pray: Stir up Your power, O Lord, and come among us with great might; and because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let Your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us, and make ready the way of Your only-begotten Son that at His second coming, we may worship Him in truth and purity; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

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THY KINGDOM COME A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY Winter 2011 1. Rev. Cwirla‘s article is really like a Bible study in itself. But we may expound on his insights by first considering the many and various aspects of a king’s reign… Just what is a king? How does he normally rule? In what ways do people misconstrue God’s reign as though it were the same as that of earthly kings?

2. Rev. Cwirla describes Jesus’ unique Kingship as being a “beggar king.” Read John 18:36-37. How would an earthly king respond to being arrested and put on trial for crimes he didn’t commit? Yet how does Jesus respond? How does Jesus describe His purpose as a King?

3. Just how does a person get into Jesus’ kingdom? Read John 3:3-8. What does it mean to be born again/anew/from above? What occurs when someone is born? How is one born of water and the Spirit? What is really happening here that allows you to enter into God’s kingdom?

4. Just what kind of kingdom is this? Read Philippians 3:20 and Romans 14:17. Where is Jesus’ kingdom? What sort of things are we praying for when we ask for the Father’s kingdom to come to us?

5. Why does Jesus often teach about His kingdom in parables? Read Matthew 20:1-16. Do such stories make much sense when they are considered according to the ways of this world? How does Jesus use

kingdom parables to teach about the unique heavenly kingdom? How do you understand these stories?

6. How do we recognize Jesus’ kingdom as it comes to us now? Read Luke 17:20-21. Can you point to the location of “heaven on earth” on a map? Where is God‘s kingdom? How does it get there?

7. Since God created everybody, aren’t all people already part of God’s kingdom? Read Colossians 1:13-14. Who else rules over a rival “realm?” What is this prince’s domain today? What is necessary in order for you to be rescued from his dark rule so that you can dwell in Jesus’ kingdom?

8. Rev. Cwirla quotes the hymn stanza, “none could ever ask too much.” Read 1 Peter 1:3-4. How does one normally measure the wealth of a particular kingdom? Can you measure the riches of the kingdom of heaven? Why not?

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THE THING ABOUT MARY A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY Winter 2011 1. Ms. Ostapowich does a fine job showing Mary’s perspective, as perhaps only a young mother like herself could do so well. See Luke 1:26-38. What was Mary‘s initial reaction to Gabriel’s greeting?

What question did she have at this message? How does Mary describe herself after hearing this news?

Mary is, expectedly, quite troubled and afraid that an angel has visited her from heaven! Upon hearing that she has been chosen to bear the Christ-child, she is perplexed, since she’s an unmarried virgin.

She wants to know how this can be, and finds out that she’s become pregnant in a very odd fashion, through her ear which heard the Spirit’s message. After all this, before it even has much time to sink in, Mary describes herself in all humility, as the Lord’s “servant,” literally His female slave!

2. Mary’s road would not be an easy one, right from the get-go. Read Luke 2:1-5. How long was the journey to Nazareth? Is there any mention of Nestor the Christmas donkey or other animal for them to ride on? How long would it have taken for them to get there, on foot, as pregnant as Mary was?

It is more than 70 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem, by the straightest route, and most likely good Jews like Mary and Joseph would travel around Samaria. It may have been over 100 miles. No animal is mentioned in Scripture, so it is most likely that they walked. Such a journey would have taken as long as two weeks for someone in Mary‘s condition. Yet they had no choice but to endure the rough circumstances, since Caesar had decreed this census.

3. There is much assumed about Mary giving birth to the baby Jesus. Read Luke 2:6-7. Was there a mean innkeeper who refused them lodging? Were they sent out to the barn in desperation? Is there any significance to Jesus being place in a feeding trough?

There was no “hotel” involved in the Christmas story. The word often wrongly translated as “inn” is actually the same Greek word for the upper room where Jesus would host the last supper. It is really a “guest room” in someone‘s home, perhaps a relative or friend. It was already occupied by someone who no doubt could travel quicker than pregnant Mary. So, by God‘s design, after giving birth she places Jesus in a manger, for He would give His very Body and Blood for Christians to eat and drink.

4. Why does God choose “shepherds” to be the first to visit the holy family? Read Luke 2:8-14. What are these heavenly “hosts” all about? What are the shepherds to make of all of this?

These “hosts” are not an angel choir with harps and halos. They are a heavenly army, ready for battle against the spiritual forces of darkness warring against Jesus. No wonder these shepherds are so scared at their appearance. God purposefully chose shepherds, because the Messiah is identified with that profession, and also with what they shepherded--a lamb. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lay down His life for the sheep. He is also the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world at the cross. The message from the angels is the same as that given to Mary, about God’s “favor” toward them also.

5. Ms. Ostapowich rightly focuses upon Mary’s response after giving birth. Read Luke 2:15-20. How does Mary react to all that has happened? How do the shepherds respond very differently? Is one way better than the other?

Mary’s approach was somewhat introspective. She values these things greatly, guarding them in her heart, and she continues to meditate on all that she has experienced and heard. The Shepherds are more outward in their responses, verbally praising and glorifying God for all they had seen and heard.

There is benefit in both things for you. Pondering in your private prayers all that the Christ-child means to you is a blessing, as is singing and confessing in worship a proper response at Christmas.

6. The longest record of Mary‘s words is in the Magnificat. Read Luke 1:46-47. What does Mary‘s soul do, in respect to the Lord? How does she view her own spirit? How does her spirit react to the Christ-child in her womb?

Mary‘s soul makes the Lord “great.” It “magnifies”Him in her view, so that she can see now even more of the great works God is doing than she has ever seen before! Her own spirit, by comparison, is ever-humbled before the ever-increasing greatness of the Lord. She sees herself as unworthy, a sinner who needs God‘s mercy. Her spirit also recognizes where her Savior from sin, death and the devil is now found--in her very womb! She rejoices that her Lord and Savior is soon to be born from within her!

7. Read Luke 1:48-50. How does Mary continue to view herself in a very humble fashion? How does God also reveal to her how others will view her in a much more exalted way? What is the best way for us to view Mary?

On the one hand, Mary continues to refer to herself as a servant, a female-slave of the Lord. Yet she is inspired by the Spirit to recognize that future generations will refer to her as “blessed“ for being the Mother of our Lord. We do well to view Mary in both of these ways, as a humble sinner whom God chose as the vessel for our Lord‘s birth into this world as a man, and also as the blessed Mother of our Lord, giving her the honor due, by praising God for choosing her and using her as He did.

8. Mary speaks one more time in Scripture, after this. Read John 2:1-5. What is Mary‘s idea at the wedding of Cana? How does Jesus respond to her? What is her response? What can we learn from these final words of Mary in the Bible?

Mary presents the problem of lack of wine for the wedding feast to Jesus. Having pondered for a long time now in her heart, she may be wondering if this is the time for Jesus divinity to manifest itself publicly. Jesus responds that it is not the time. Yet her trust remains in Jesus, her Lord and Savior. She instructs the servants, “Whatever He says to you, you do it!” These are words to live by for you, too. If Jesus says to be baptized, then you rejoice to come to the font so He can wash your sins away. If He says, “take eat…take…drink…do this…” then you rejoice at this blessed invitation to eat His Body and drink His Blood for your forgiveness.

Let us pray: Almighty God, as You dealt wonderfully with Your servant, the blessed virgin Mary, in choosing her to be the mother of Your dearly beloved Son and thus graciously made known Your regard for the poor and lowly and despised, grant us grace in all humility and meekness to receive Your Word with hearty faith and to rejoice in Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord. Amen.

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THE THING ABOUT MARY A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY Winter 2011 1. Ms. Ostapowich does a fine job showing Mary’s perspective, as perhaps only a young mother like herself could do so well. See Luke 1:26-38. What was Mary‘s initial reaction to Gabriel’s greeting?

What question did she have at this message? How does Mary describe herself after hearing this news?

2. Mary’s road would not be an easy one, right from the get-go. Read Luke 2:1-5. How long was the journey to Nazareth? Is there any mention of Nestor the Christmas donkey or other animal for them to ride on? How long would it have taken for them to get there, on foot, as pregnant as Mary was?

3. There is much assumed about Mary giving birth to the baby Jesus. Read Luke 2:6-7. Was there a mean innkeeper who refused them lodging? Were they sent out to the barn in desperation? Is there any significance to Jesus being place in a feeding trough?

4. Why does God choose “shepherds” to be the first to visit the holy family? Read Luke 2:8-14. What are these heavenly “hosts” all about? What are the shepherds to make of all of this?

5. Ms. Ostapowich rightly focuses upon Mary’s response after giving birth. Read Luke 2:15-20. How does Mary react to all that has happened? How do the shepherds respond very differently? Is one way better than the other?

6. The longest record of Mary‘s words is in the Magnificat. Read Luke 1:46-47. What does Mary‘s soul do, in respect to the Lord? How does she view her own spirit? How does her spirit react to the Christ-child in her womb?

7. Read Luke 1:48-50. How does Mary continue to view herself in a very humble fashion? How does God also reveal to her how others will view her in a much more exalted way? What is the best way for us to view Mary?

8. Mary speaks one more time in Scripture, after this. Read John 2:1-5. What is Mary‘s idea at the wedding of Cana? How does Jesus respond to her? What is her response? What can we learn from these final words of Mary in the Bible?

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Christmas in the Nicene Creed A Higher Things Bible Study Winter 2011 Introduction: The main point of Pr. Borghardt's article is the pondering of the miracle of God becoming a man for our salvation. He zeroes in on the particular words of the Nicene Creed: “And was made man.”

1. Read the Nicene Creed (p.158 of Lutheran Service Book). Why was Jesus incarnate and why did He become man?

“Who for us men and for our salvation” answers this. (Note that “men” is used in the sense of “human beings” here, not just “males.” It was for our salvation. The Son does not become man to show that He can do it but so that He might save us from our sins.

2. Read Luke 1:31-32. What does the Name “Jesus” mean? How is the baby described? Whose Son is He? “Jesus” is the Greek for “Joshua” which means “The Lord saves.” (See Matthew 1:21). His name itself confesses why He came. As Son of the Highest, Jesus is true God; He is the Son who is one God with the Father and the Holy Spirit. His father David means that He will also be true man, born in human flesh and of the line of King David. As the Catechism puts it simply: “True God, begotten of the Father and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary.”

3. Look up Philippians 2:5-11. a. How did Jesus regard being God for our sakes?

He didn't come to show us His almighty power as something to be held on to like a prize. Just because He is God, He doesn't hold that over us to frighten and terrify us. Rather... b. What form did Jesus take on?

He became man, the form of a servant. He was not afraid of being God in the flesh. c. For what purpose did He do this?

He did it so that He could humble Himself and die for our sins. d. What happens to Him after He suffers?

Jesus is exalted above all things. Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is

indeed Lord. Even those who don't believe in Him will acknowledge Him as true God and man on the Last Day. 4. Some pastors and people genuflect (bow on one knee) when the words “And became Man” are spoken. Why would they do this? Do we have to bow during the Creed? What is the custom in your church?

This practice is a physical gesture that confesses what the Scriptures say about it: That He became man and that every knee will bow. It is NOT a “Catholic” gesture since it is clearly taught in God's Word. It is also not “required” in the sense we have to do it. Rather, bowing or genuflecting during this part of the Creed is just kneeling before Him who is our King. A sort of practice for the Last Day! Discuss the custom of your own church and discuss when they've seen this done (at some Higher Things conferences, for example).

5. The Incarnation is confessed not just in the New Testament but is pointed to in the Old Testament.

Look at the following passages and discuss how they point to the Son of God becoming man. a. Genesis 3:15 God's promise, right after the Fall indicates a human being born who has the power to crush Satan and sin. In fact, Eve at first thought she had given birth to this God-man when Cain was born (Genesis 4:1, following the Hebrew which says, “I have brought forth a man, 'The Lord.'” b. Exodus 3:1-3 The burning bush is a picture of Jesus' divine and human natures. Just as the fire was in the bush and yet the bush was not burned up, so the Divine nature, which is infinite and almighty, was able to be in Jesus along with His human nature without the human nature being destroyed. c. Isaiah 45:8 The heavens rain down and the earth brings forth salvation. The raining down from heaven points to the Divine Nature of Christ descending to be take on the human nature which is of earthly flesh.

Together this makes the earth spring forth righteousness, that is, give birth to Jesus, true God and man.

6. What is unique about Jesus being man? See Hebrews 2:17-18.

Jesus is made in every way as we are but without sin. Yet because He suffered and was tempted as we are, He is able to help us. His uniqueness is that He has no sin in His human nature as we do (for He had no human father). Yet His being human is what enables us to be saved by what He does for us.

7. Read John 1:1-3, 14. What do these verses tell us about the miracle we confess in the Creed?

These verses clearly spell out that the Word (the Son) is true God but that He also “become man” and lived among us. The words of the Creed here make a direct reference to the Gospel, reminding us that the Creeds are not “man made” but confess what is taught in God's Word.

8. The miracle of the Incarnation is unlike anything found in any other religion. No other religion teaches that God became man. In fact, many religions (Jews and Muslims, notably) explicitly deny that

God became man. What does St. John warn us about regarding this? See 1 John 4:1-3.

The confession of Jesus' incarnation is central to our faith as Christians. Those who deny that Jesus is true God and true man deny the very faith itself. This is why the Athanasian Creed instructs us to confess this to be saved.

9. Close by singing or praying the words of LSB 384, “Of the Father's Love Begotten.�

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Christmas in the Nicene Creed A Higher Things Bible Study Winter 2011 1. Read the Nicene Creed (p.158 of Lutheran Service Book). Why was Jesus incarnate and why did He become man?

2. Read Luke 1:31-32. What does the Name “Jesus” mean? How is the baby described? Whose Son is He?

3. Look up Philippians 2:5-11. a. How did Jesus regard being God for our sakes?

b. What form did Jesus take on?

c. For what purpose did He do this?

d. What happens to Him after He suffers?

4. Some pastors and people genuflect (bow on one knee) when the words “And became Man” are spoken. Why would they do this? Do we have to bow during the Creed? What is the custom in your

church?

5. The Incarnation is confessed not just in the New Testament but is pointed to in the Old Testament.

Look at the following passages and discuss how they point to the Son of God becoming man. a. Genesis 3:15

b. Exodus 3:1-3

c. Isaiah 45:8

6. What is unique about Jesus being man? See Hebrews 2:17-18.

7. Read John 1:1-3, 14. What do these verses tell us about the miracle we confess in the Creed?

8. The miracle of the Incarnation is unlike anything found in any other religion. No other religion teaches that God became man. In fact, many religions (Jews and Muslims, notably) explicitly deny that God became man. What does St. John warn us about regarding this? See 1 John 4:1-3.

9. Close by singing or praying the words of LSB 384, “Of the Father's Love Begotten.�

PLANKING OR CROSS BEAMING? Winter 2011 1. What does Rev. Poppe mean when he says that “there is no place in the entire world that has not been redeemed by Christ”?

Scripture verses such as John 1:29 tell us that Christ died for the sins of the whole world, not just for a few. “Behold, the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.” In Christ’s death, he paid the price of all sins, and so it is true that there is no place in the entire world that has not been redeemed by Christ.

2. What are some examples of the “groaning” of the creation according to Romans 8:1921?

Answers will vary. Earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters are the obvious ones.

One could also point out the fact that things rust, decay, and generally deteriorate over time.

3. Read Genesis 3:15ff. How do we know that sin affected more than just people’s souls?

When Adam and Eve sinned, more was affected than just their souls. Even the creation was “subjected to futility.” The problems that exist in the creation itself are a result of Adam’s sin. Some of the consequences of sin included the ground not yielding its fruit to Adam, pain in child bearing, etc.

4. Why is it comforting to know that even the creation itself will be “set free from its bondage to decay” when the “sons of God” are revealed?

Like Adam’s sin, Christ’s death for sins also has far-reaching effects. The creation itself benefits from His redeeming work. All things will be restored in the resurrection. There will be a “new heavens and earth.” The Christian can look at the deterioration of the world, the destruction of tornados and other natural disasters and confess that God will set the creation free from its bondage, too.

5. How does the article suggest using “planking” as a starting point for bearing witness to Jesus and His redeeming work?

Start a conversation about the fact that God has redeemed all things through the “planks” or “beams” of the cross. He has redeemed not just inanimate objects, but people. Christians can say to their friends that they, too, are redeemed by the Lord Jesus, purchased and won, “not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious, blood and with His innocent suffering and death.”

PLANKING OR CROSS BEAMING? A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY Winter 2011

1. What does Rev. Poppe mean when he says that “there is no place in the entire world that has not been redeemed by Christ”?

2. What are some examples of the “groaning” of the creation according to Romans 8:1921?

3. Read Genesis 3:15ff. How do we know that sin affected more than just people’s souls?

4. Why is it comforting to know that even the creation itself will be “set free from its bondage to decay” when the “sons of God” are revealed?

5. How does the article suggest using “planking” as a starting point for bearing witness to Jesus and His redeeming work?

WHEN A LOVED ONE COMMITS SUICIDE A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY LEADER'S GUIDE Introduction: The topic of suicide can be somewhat abstract for those who do not know anyone who has taken their own life or else especially painful for someone who has first-hand knowledge of someone who has committed suicide. If any youth are particularly troubled about the topic, encourage them to talk to their parents and pastor for additional counsel and comfort. The gist of Pr. Preus' article is that faith is something the Lord gives to us and is more than simply feelings or conscious acknowledgment of information. This will help us understand how someone could “have faith” and yet, because of depression or other illness still be able to take his or her own life.

1. Why do you think some Christians conclude that if a person commits suicide they could not be saved and be with the Lord?

Answers will vary but the most common might be something like, “Because they didn't repent before they died and so they can't be forgiven.”

2. What does Romans 3:28 say about how we are saved?

We are saved by grace through faith. This means that faith is more than simply the conscious assent (“yes, I believe that” or “no, I don't”) to some facts. When the Lord saves us, He also gives us the faith which trusts that His forgiveness is “for me.” But that trust is not something that can be measured by how much we feel it or by what we do in response.

3. Read John 10:27. What does this say about Christ's power as our Savior?

It is very tempting to think that we can fall easily away from Christ and so there must be something we have to do in order to “stay saved.” Here we have Jesus' own words that when He has claimed us as His own in the forgiveness given to us in Holy Baptism, the devil himself cannot take us away from him.

The point is that Christ is stronger even than depression which would seem to the world as if a person has let go of Christ. But in response, Christ has not let go of them.

4. Many Christians assume that being a Christian means you won't ever be sad or depressed. What does Psalm 88:2-3, 15-18 say about it?

Psalm 88 is a good example of a psalm prayed by a person who is in great distress. In fact, knowing that our Lord prayed the Psalms, we know that He prayed this one also. Here we learn that because we suffer much in this world, as Christians we cry out to God. But just because we are Christians doesn't mean we somehow magically feel no pain or suffering or depression. It doesn't mean we don't suffer physical injury or pain or even mental and emotional disease like depression. Yet the Psalm does remind us that we cry out to God and He hears us.

5. Look up 1 John 3:20. What comfort does this give for Christians who may think that their loved one's heart gave up with respect to God? Depression may cause a person's heart (feelings, emotions) to condemn them. But the Lord is greater than our hearts. He doesn't base His forgiveness and salvation on our feelings or our response but upon His sure and certain mercy in Christ.

6. Is suicide a sin? Read 1 John 1:7. From what sins does Jesus cleanse us?

Suicide is surely a sin but the blood of Jesus cleanses us from ALL sins. Note also in this verse and in verse 6, the distinction is made between walking in darkness and light. This does NOT refer to the darkness a depressed person may perceive around them. Rather it is the darkness of sin apart from Christ. Make it clear to the participants that these verses are NOT talking about feelings and emotions.

7. Read Romans 8:31-39. What is able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus? Can suicide?

Again, these verses put the strength and certainty of God's love in Christ against anything the world can throw at it. Suicide is a symptom of sin in the world. It is often the result of depression which is a genuine illness. There is a great distinction to be made between someone who is an avowed atheist who takes their own life and a Christian who struggles with what is a serious illness. We cannot explain what goes through person's mind when he makes the decision to take his own life. But we can hear what God says cannot separate us from His love. Suicide would fall into that list, too.

8. Discuss what is stronger: our feelings and emotions or God's promises?

Here you can wrap up the discussion by pointing youth to the certainty of God's promises over and above our sins and mistakes and sufferings. The world and many so-called Christians would have us believe that we can destroy God's promises just by sinning. God's Word tells us that is not so at all. The thing that wins out is always the Lord's gracious promises to us in Christ.

9. Conclude by singing or praying the words of LSB Hymn 756, “Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me?�

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WHEN A LOVED ONE COMMITS SUICIDE A HIGHER THINGS BIBLE STUDY LEADER'S GUIDE 1. Why do you think some Christians conclude that if a person commits suicide they could not be saved and be with the Lord?

2. What does Romans 3:28 say about how we are saved?

3. Read John 10:27. What does this say about Christ's power as our Savior?

4. Many Christians assume that being a Christian means you won't ever be sad or depressed. What does Psalm 88:2-3, 15-18 say about it?

5. Look up 1 John 3:20. What comfort does this give for Christians who may think that their loved one's heart gave up with respect to God?

6. Is suicide a sin? Read 1 John 1:7. From what sins does Jesus cleanse us?

7. Read Romans 8:31-39. What is able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus? Can suicide?

8. Discuss what is stronger: our feelings and emotions or God's promises?

9. Conclude by singing or praying the words of LSB Hymn 756, “Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me?�

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