The Lutheran Layman

THE

LUTHERAN L AYMAN

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

September - October 2017

1917 - 2017

the

Luther Effect see page 3

Familiar Voices on ‘Hour’ . . . . 2 Good News for Road Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Why Not Grow?. . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Fresh Courses Online . . . . . . 11 Nominations are Open. . . . . 16 New in Middle East. . . . . . . . 18

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SPEAKING UP

™

The Abundant Life

of Grace!*

By Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz of The Lutheran Hour

H

ere is the problem I want you to tackle: the problem of leaving God’s grace behind.

I think it’s safe to say that a good number of you are fairly dedicated and mature followers of Christ.

I also understand and give thanks to God that many people who hear The Lutheran Hour are new in their faith or are exploring Jesus for the first time. I rejoice in what the Holy Spirit is doing in their lives, and I pray that they know and receive the abundant grace of God. Let me highlight ways a person may leave the abundant grace of God behind … you get very busy, you’re volunteering, you’re studying, you’re meeting, you’re task-forcing, you’re singing, you’re chaperoning, you’re participating, and you are potlucking. You’re going full tilt because you love God and you love what He has done in the lives of His people. But busyness can become a burden. Too many demands … make you tired; then bitter; then feeling guilty and inadequate.

Equating your faith with a full schedule can cause you to … feel like your faith is burning out….

There’s another hazard ... you may begin to believe that you totally understand the mind of God. But then you see some things you can’t figure out. There are puzzling events. There are tragic turns in people’s lives … you begin to believe that your knowledge is more important than your dependence on God’s grace and your trust in Him. You may leave God’s grace behind by neglecting faith friendships. A follower of Jesus tries to live a holy life. A follower of Christ pushes immorality away and fights the fight of faith against profanity and negative thinking and gossip and promiscuity. A follower of Christ tries to grow in controlling temper,

in fostering devotion to family, and in integrity in life. But with that growth in Christian living, you may also develop an intolerance for people who do not seem to be living holy lives. You may find yourself becoming critical and less compassionate….

The gift of God’s grace alone through faith in Jesus can be pushed out of our lives by our own volition.

Achievement, self-righteousness, and exclusion can sneak in and take its place.

Jesus says it straight, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved. He’ll go in. He’ll go out. He’ll find pasture” (John 10:9) …. the only reason you do what you do is because of the abundant grace of God! The only reason you understand anything is because of God’s grace, revealed in His one and only Son! And in everything you cannot understand, God’s grace will keep you strong. It will bring you home.

God’s grace is the answer ….

Jesus said this in John 10:11 and 16: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep … I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them in also, and they will listen to my voice. So, there will be one flock, one shepherd.”

Jesus Himself is the Door. Jesus Himself is the Friend of sinners. He is the Hope of the world. He calls you to form faith friendships that will bless people with new life. n

Equating your faith with a full schedule can cause you to … feel like your faith is burning out….

Excerpts from a message heard on The Lutheran Hour, May 7, 2017.

*

L AYMAN The Lutheran

Vol. 88, No. 5 September - October 2017

Dr. Gerald Perschbacher (LL.D.), Editor • Andrea Thompson, Layout Subscription: $5. Printed bi-monthly. Send color photos for use. Photos sent to the paper may not be returned. Lutheran Hour Ministries, The Lutheran Hour, Bringing Christ to the Nations, BCTN, This is the Life, Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones, Esta Es La Vida, Para el Camino, THRED, and The Hoffmann Society are ® registered marks, or SM service marks. The Puzzle Club is a service mark and trademark of Int’l LLL. All rights reserved, 2017 Int’l LLL. LHM Response Center: 1-800-876-9880

Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

Two Familiar Voices Take the Airwaves In celebration of Lutheran Hour Ministries’ 100th anniversary, the ministry is excited to announce that the weekly broadcast of The Lutheran Hour will feature Rev. Dr. Kenneth R. Klaus and Rev. Dr. Dale A. Meyer beginning Nov. 5, 2017.

The regular appearances of these two distinguished speakers are part of a transition plan being implemented following Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz’s recent acceptance of a call to serve as executive director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty in Washington, D.C. Seltz’s last broadcast as speaker on The Lutheran Hour was recorded in Wittenberg and will air Reformation weekend, Oct. 29.

“In a year where we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lutheran Hour Ministries, we are extremely pleased to honor the legacy of The Lutheran Hour program by having these two popular speakers assist us while we search for the next individual who will share the Good News of Jesus Christ over the airwaves,” says LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz. “Generations of people in our listening audience have been blessed to learn from and be strengthened in the faith by Dr. Klaus and Dr. Meyer. We look forward to their continued role in this important ministry that remains a critical part of LHM’s focus on media outreach.”

Klaus retired from the full-time speaker role in 2010 and has been recording one sermon a month for The Lutheran Hour and writing many of LHM’s Daily Devotions. Meyer served as speaker from 1989 through 2001 (as well as host of LHM’s previously aired On Main Street weekly television program) and currently serves as president of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.

The Lutheran Hour airs on nearly 1,800 stations throughout North America and reaches more than one million listeners each week. The broadcast can also be heard anytime online at lutheranhour.org or through a mobile app for iPhones and Android devices. n

the

Luther Effect

Stained-glass window in Wittenberg, Germany.

By David Mahsman

“I’m a griffulous, groffulous groo.

I’m a schmoosler, a schminkler, and a poop-poobler too.”

Wait—what?

What in the world do these nonsensical words have to do with Martin Luther and the Reformation? Yet, here they are, right now, in a special national exhibition in Luther’s town, Wittenberg, Germany, to help mark the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.

The words are song lyrics written by Dr. Seuss for a 1971 “Cat in the Hat” cartoon.

It seems that Dr. Seuss, born Theodor Seuss Geisel, grew up in a Lutheran home; and, says the exhibit, he wrote books that “encourage decent behavior.”

The exhibition also features some of the usual Lutheran suspects, as well as other surprises, some very pleasant. Among them is Dr. Walter A. Maier, founding Speaker of The Lutheran Hour.

His quote is very not nonsensical: “May God give us the courage and insistence to declare with undeniable finality, ‘back to Luther’!”

Says the exhibit: “‘Back to Luther!’ urged Walter A. Maier in a 1933 address marking the 450th anniversary of Luther’s birth. As the first speaker of The Lutheran Hour, a radio programme [sic] that gained worldwide popularity, he had Walter A. Maier, founding Speaker of The Lutheran already put this into Hour, is featured during the 500th anniversary of practice. He used the Reformation in a special exhibit in Wittenberg, this new medium of Germany, as a proclaimer of Reformation theology. mass communication to spread the reformist message. As a preacher, he had the largest audience of the twentieth century. The Lutheran Hour, a pioneer of religious radio and forerunner of modern televangelism, is still broadcast today.”

“May God give us the courage and insistence to declare with undeniable finality, ‘back to Luther’!”

“Back to Luther!”

Featured along with Johann Sebastian Bach, hymn writer Paul Gerhardt, and Wilhelm Loehe, founder of the Lutheran deaconess movement, are Dr. Won Yong Ji, who taught at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and translated many of Martin Luther’s works into his native Korean; Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who attended a Lutheran church as a child but later left the Christian faith; and (strangely) German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who said “God is dead” and reviled Luther for resuscitating what Nietzsche saw as a nearly obsolete Christianity, although he admired Luther’s contribution to the German language.

The idea of the exhibition, Luther! 95 Schätze – 95 Menschen (Luther! 95 Treasures – 95 People), is to look at the influence of Luther and the Reformation over the five centuries since Oct. 31, 1517. That’s the day the Augustinian friar, priest, and professor famously posted his 95 Theses against the abuse of indulgences and ignited a wholly unexpected firestorm that put him at odds with the Roman Catholic Church and the Holy Roman Empire.

The world hasn’t been the same since. It really hasn’t. see next page The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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the

Luther Effect

from previous page

Recent tour buses line the streets near the Lutherhaus.

Photo here and on bottom of pages 6 & 7 courtesy of David Mahsman

The spark and the fire

Martin Luther could not possibly have known the role he was about to play in world history when he composed his 95 Theses, which were simply propositions and questions for academic debate on the abuse of indulgences.

Luther’s theses dealt a blow to the very foundation of church theology and practice at the time. They were translated from Latin into German, printed, and distributed widely in a matter of weeks. The religious, political, and economic conditions of the day provided tinder that needed only a spark to ignite.

Moved by the Holy Spirit, Luther provided the spark.

The next few years were full of drama, intrigue, and key events: • Six months later, Luther was summoned by his Augustinian Order to defend his position at Heidelberg and, in August of 1518, was examined by the pope’s representative, Cardinal Cajetan.

The big celebration

This summer, I visited Wittenberg and Berlin, places where I lived and worked for seven years as a missionary for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. I wanted to see how the Reformation anniversary is being celebrated there and to consider all that has happened since 1517.

This is a big year for Germany, for Wittenberg, and other Luther-related sites, and for Lutherans and Protestants, generally. Many other Christian church bodies and confessions also are marking the Reformation quincentennial.

Even Pope Francis has taken part in at least one commemoration of the Reformation (in Sweden) and has said some nice things about Martin Luther.

(But don’t get too excited. The answer to the question, “Is the pope Catholic?” is still “yes,” although there are some Roman Catholics who might disagree.)

I’m not sure that Wittenberg is seeing the 5,000 to 10,000 additional visitors each day that once were expected, but there’s no question that tourism is up.

During my days in Wittenberg this summer, there were more tour busses parked near the Lutherhaus, more visitors on the streets, and fewer empty hotel rooms than during my years working there.

Years of planning and plenty of money were spent getting ready. The German government, the state of Saxony-Anhalt, and the European Union reportedly have spent more than 70 million euros (about $80 million) in Wittenberg alone to prepare for the anniversary. Nearly $10 million was spent renovating each of the two historic churches—the Town Church, St. Mary’s (where Luther frequently preached), and the Castle Church with its famous theses door. Another $28 million, I’m told, was spent

Luther’s grave marker in the Castle Church, Wittenberg, Germany.

renovating and expanding the castle itself. There were lots of other fix-ups, too, including some $3 million in donations raised by the LCMS and our German sister church, the Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church, to renovate the town’s Old Latin School of 1564 as a Christian-education and Gospel-outreach center.

Why all the hoopla, planning, and spending?

Luther and the Reformation are of critical theological and historical importance for the various churches involved, Lutheran and otherwise. Certainly the German and federal-state governments, business people, and others are interested in the money the celebration is bringing into the country. But that begs the question as to why so many people are willing to spend that money in the first place.

For many, in my view, it is out of genuine appreciation for what God did 500 years ago through Martin Luther and his reformer friends—we sometimes forget that Luther didn’t do it alone—to restore the Gospel of grace and forgiveness in Jesus Christ to the church and to the world. For others, it’s just the place to be this year, to be a part of history.

For others, it’s just the place to be this year, to be a part of history.

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

• Luther gained more and more clarity regarding the Gospel, understanding by 1519 that when Scripture speaks of the “righteousness of God,” it means the righteousness that God gives us through faith in Jesus Christ. That same year, he faced Professor John Eck at Leipzig and argued that the pope and councils do not have supreme authority over the Christian church.

• In 1520, Luther wrote three works of foundational importance to the Reformation. To the Christian Nobility of the German Nation called on the German rulers to reform a church that would not reform itself and staked out the “priesthood of believers” as a key doctrine. In The Babylonian Captivity of the Church, he attacked the sacramental system of the Roman church, especially the Roman mass. And “the whole of Christian life in brief form” (Luther’s words) and justification by faith are outlined in The Freedom of a Christian.

• After Luther in late 1520 burned a papal bull threatening him with excommunication, the pope pulled the trigger in 1521, throwing him out of the Roman church. It was also in 1521 that Luther appeared before Emperor Charles V at the Diet of Worms, stood his ground, and refused to recant his writings. On the way back to Wittenberg, Luther, now an outlaw, was “kidnapped” at the direction of his prince, Elector Frederick the Wise, and taken to the Wartburg Castle for safekeeping. There he began his translation of the New Testament into German.

• Because of turmoil back in Wittenberg, Luther left the Wartburg in 1522 and returned to the town that was Ground Zero for a Reformation that now could not be stopped.

Above: The Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany; its main door was the place where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses in 1517.

the working of the Gospel. “For surely Your Electoral Grace’s territory has more excellent pastors and preachers than any other territory in the whole world, and their faithful, pure teaching helps to preserve peace. As a consequence, the young people, both boys and girls, grow up so well instructed in the Catechism and the Scriptures that I am deeply moved when I see that young boys and girls can pray, believe, and speak more of God and Christ than they ever could in the monasteries, foundations, and schools of bygone days, or even of our day,” he wrote.

Other territories were blessed as well. As the 16th century progressed, the Reformation spread through many of the German-speaking territories, to Scandinavia, and throughout central and eastern Europe.

Today, there are about 77 million Lutherans worldwide. The greatest number still live in Europe, but the Lutheran church is growing rapidly in other parts of the world. There are more Lutherans today in Asia (11.8 million) than in North America (6.4 million), and there are far more Lutherans in Africa (23 million) than there are in Germany (11.8 million). see next page

Below: the Wittenberg Church ceiling

“Martin Luther could not possibly have known the role he was about to play in world history when he composed his 95 Theses …”

I can’t recount the entire life story of Martin Luther here, but every Lutheran ought to be familiar with Luther, his fellow reformers, and the Reformation. There are plenty of resources available to help with that. Among those, I would certainly recommend items available from LHM (lhm.org/reformationresources), notably the three-part video-based study, A Man Named Martin, and a helpful little booklet

by Dr. Carol Geisler, “A Treasure Revealed: Martin Luther and the Events of the Reformation.” Both list other resources for more study. You might also want to have a look at a Missouri Synod website, www.lutheranreformation.org, and at offerings from Concordia Publishing House (www.cph.org).

Immediate fruits of the Reformation

A hundred years ago, in 1917, The Lutheran Witness magazine put out a special edition for the 400th anniversary of the Reformation. One section was titled: “Some Immediate Fruits of the Reformation.” Co-editor Rev. Martin Sommer wrote, “Ignorance and superstition gave way as instruction and enlightenment entered the hearts of young and old. Boys and girls no longer stupidly looked up with frightened hearts and features to the cross and name of Jesus Christ … .”

“From a spiritual waste and bog the parishes became a spiritual paradise, in which grew and blossomed faith and prayer, godliness and obedience, Christian cheerfulness, joy, and peace.”

From my own parish experience, briefly as a pastor and for much longer as a member, Sommer’s words seem a bit rosy, to say the least. But in contrast to the state of the church and Christianity before the Reformation, those congregations with evangelical pastors really were a spiritual paradise, because they had the Gospel.

Sommer cites a letter Luther wrote to his prince, Elector John the Steadfast, in May 1530. Luther wrote that the elector and his land had been greatly blessed by

“From a spiritual waste and bog the parishes became a spiritual paradise, in which grew and blossomed faith and prayer, godliness and obedience, Christian cheerfulness, joy, and peace.”

see next page The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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the

Luther Effect from previous page

Left: Caption here Right: Luther thought highly of marriage.

Lasting effects

The impact of the Reformation was not limited to the 16th century, of course. We feel it still today.

For example, the Reformation elevated the status of women. It emphasized the importance of marriage and the role of women in the Christian home while rejecting celibacy as somehow preferable and more spiritual than marriage and family. Luther’s teaching in this regard—not to mention his personal example— profoundly and permanently altered the home.

The Reformation doctrines of Scripture alone and the priesthood of all believers led to the need for an educated laity able to read and understand God’s Word for themselves.

Luther’s right-hand and author of the Augsburg Confession, Philipp Melanchthon, still is known as “Germany’s teacher.” Luther summed up his thoughts on education like this: “Parents should send their children to school and prepare them for the Lord God so that he may use them for the service of others.”

Even without the Reformation, modern science might have developed in Christian lands, but the Reformation hastened its development. Questions about nature were no longer answered primarily by quoting Aristotle, tradition, and dogma, but by turning to observation and experimentation. Similarly, theological questions were answered not simply by quoting medieval philosophers and theologians, but by turning directly to the Bible.

Dr. Erik Hermann, director of the Center for Reformation Research at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, says that perhaps the most far-reaching impact of the Reformation is its redefinition of what constitutes the spiritual life.

Hermann writes that it was “revolutionary” when Luther argued that “only faith made one spiritual, and the life of the common lay person was a true religious sacrifice and worship when shaped by God’s commandments. Living as a faithful father or mother, an obedient worker, a responsible citizen or temporal ruler was the real religious life, more pleasing to God than all the vows and daily offices together.”

“The true treasure of the Church is the Most Holy Gospel of the glory and grace of God.” Left: Luther as memorialized in Wittenberg. Site visuals for this article are courtesy of the editor, unless noted.

Right: The Martin Luther motion picture, popular in the 1950s, was an impactful means of sharing God’s Word in that era, as this old poster noted.

Caption here

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

Far right: In Wittenberg, Town Church tourists flock to the altar where Luther regularly administered communion and offered prayers.

What would Luther think?

The impact of the Reformation is far reaching, to say the least. But of most value and of greatest blessing to us is rediscovery of the Gospel, that we are saved by God’s grace alone, through faith alone, and on account of Christ alone.

By “faith” we mean trust in the promises of God and the merits of Christ. We are justified “through faith” because faith trusts God’s promise of forgiveness for Christ’s sake. When Luther finally understood this after so many years trying to appease the wrath of God, he was overcome with joy. At last, he could be sure of his salvation.

As he would later write, “I felt as if I were entirely born again and had entered paradise itself through the gates that had been flung open!”

This message of forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life through faith in Christ is one that we want to share with others. The International Lutheran Laymen’s League through Lutheran Hour Ministries has been about this work for 100 years, since the last centennial anniversary of the Reformation. I think Martin Luther would be pleased.

Although Luther faced an entirely different situation in his day— nearly everyone he knew at least professed to be Christian—these words from his pen can apply to us as well as to Wittenbergers and other Germans in the 16th century: “We live on earth only so that we should be a help to other people. Otherwise, it would be best if God would strangle us and let us die as soon as we were baptized and had begun to believe. For this reason, however, He lets us live that we may bring other people also to faith as He has done for us … .”

As for the Reformation celebration, Luther probably would be pleased as long as the focus remains on Jesus Christ and not on Martin Luther.

“Who is Luther?” he once asked. “This doctrine is not mine, nor was I crucified

Living as a faithful father or mother, an obedient worker, a responsible citizen or temporal ruler was the real religious life …

for anyone … I am not, and do not want to be, anyone’s master. I hold in common with the communion of saints that one common doctrine of Christ, who alone is our master”—and, he would add, who alone is our Savior.

As Luther wrote in Thesis 62 of the 95: “The true treasure of the Church is the Most Holy Gospel of the glory and grace of God.” n Rev. David Mahsman was a longtime editor of The Lutheran Witness and in recent years coordinated and promoted the restoration/revitalizing of the historic Latin School in Wittenberg.

Now Available!

From Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517 to the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, God was at work in the Reformation.

In A Man Named Martin– Part 3: The Movement, viewers will see how the Reformation transformed European society and, eventually, left a profound impression around the globe.

Visit lhm.org/martin3 today!

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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From left to right:

Bill Sapp and Gene Mackay

Mackay sees the trucker’s need—and the lonesomeness of this lifestyle. “They’re out there pretty much by themselves.…”

Spiritual Nourishment for Road Warriors

By Paul Schreiber

W

hile Project Connect topical booklets and display stands are frequent fixtures in church narthexes, business offices, and other places where people gather, you might not expect to see them at truck stops. Well, Gene Mackay from Nebraska is changing all that.

You see, Mackay, a lifetime member of the LCMS and long-time fan of Lutheran Hour Ministries, has found an outlet for these powerful little booklets—and it just might be a stroke of inspired genius. He’s teamed up with Bill Sapp, a friend of his. As CEO of Sapp Brothers Travel Centers, Sapp has given Mackay the green light to place Project Connect standing display racks in each of his 17 locations. Altogether, they stretch from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Fairfield, Pennsylvania, with locations in Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois, in between.

Envisioning the multi-location arrangement went something like this, according to Mackay. “I was talking to Bill, and he believes in putting out the Word of God. I showed him what Project Connect looked like, and he was very impressed. He was going to have a meeting with all his managers and see what they thought. It turns out that they all very much approved of them.”

Mackay sees the trucker’s need—and the lonesomeness of this lifestyle. “They’re out there pretty much by themselves. There’s a lot of spare time and just being away from home a lot. It’s a rough life, really,” he said. He’s also a believer in the value of Project Connect booklets. “I’ve got two of them in my home church (Good Shepherd Lutheran in Gretna), and I’ve put a couple of display stands in a couple of other churches” (nearby Lutheran churches in Papillion and Plattsmouth).

To date, 10 Project Connect display stands have been set up at Sapp Travel Centers. At sites remote

from Mackay’s home in Gretna, the stands are placed on company trucks heading to the various Sapp locations. Upon arrival, they are assembled and loaded with booklets. Mackay is personally funding the stands and the booklets. He anticipates all 17 will be in place in about a year. “I’ve had to restock at least four of them already; they’re going out so fast. Two were totally empty; the other two were about halfway depleted,” Mackay said.

Sapp is more than happy to help Mackay in his quest to share some words of hope and encouragement with the truckers and travelers who visit his travel centers. “Give him all the credit; it’s his idea. He’s putting up these display stands for truck drivers,” he said. Mackay and Sapp’s friendship goes back to when they and their wives were active in square dancing. Lately, however, their connection revolves more around their work with Gideons International where Mackay has been active for some seven years and Sapp, quite a bit longer than that.

It’s not just travel centers and church narthexes where Mackay is busy. Recently, he was found doing double duty work at the Sarpy County Fair in Springfield, Nebraska. There he manned a booth where Gideons Bibles and Project Connect booklets were made available to visitors. “We got a fairly big booth with Project Connect brochures all over it,” he said of his effort there to reach fair-goers with the Good News of Jesus.

For more information on Project Connect, go to lhm.org/projectconnect. There you will find our booklet list, display stand options, a tip sheet, and answers to frequently asked questions. Available, too, is a Project Connect mobile app, so you can access these booklets wherever you are. You can also download booklets as a FREE PDF from our Virtual Library to save, print, and read. n

Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

Generosity & Thrivent Choice A culture of generosity can make a massive difference! Thrivent Financial promotes this belief through many programs. One of the longest-running examples of this generosity is the Thrivent Choice program. Members of Thrivent continue to amaze us at Lutheran Hour Ministries with how they show generosity in their lives and material blessings.

With Thrivent Choice, eligible Thrivent members are designated Choice Dollars at various times throughout the year, based on their insurance premiums, contract values, and Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership. Choice Dollars can then be directed to thousands of nonprofit organizations nationwide, including LHM. Through Thrivent Choice, LHM has received more than one million dollars in direct support of God’s mission. That generosity could support almost the entire budget of all LHM ministry centers in South America for an entire year. Those ministry centers have a combined goal to create opportunities for more than 149,000 people to respond and learn more about the Gospel this year. That’s a fantastic return on your support of Lutheran Hour Ministries!

If you have Choice Dollars available, please consider designating them for the mission of Lutheran Hour Ministries. Your generosity will proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ worldwide through LHM. Supporting LHM through Thrivent Choice is very simple. Go to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice and search under “Lutheran Hour Ministries,” “LHM,” or “International Lutheran Laymen.” Or call Thrivent at 1-800-847-4836. Eligibility requirements can also be found at this website.

Please remember that recurring direction of Choice Dollars to recipients such as LHM is no longer an option; you must now go through the gift direction process each time you receive notification that Choice Dollars are available. Thrivent made this change in 2012 to ensure that the program can contribute as much as possible to the causes they support. n

ON THE MOVE

By Phil Johnson, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

Getting to the WHY What opportunities has God given you to serve others?

How has the Spirit been preparing people for the sake of His kingdom?

S

ome years ago, a study was commissioned to seek insights into one question: Why are some Lutheran congregations growing numerically while others are not? The researchers looked across the spectrum of Lutheran churches in North America.

They looked for answers inside congregations as well as outside. The study represented a significant effort, and the report generated at the conclusion was also significant in size and content. Curious about what they discovered? In a nutshell, here are five statements regarding growth in North American Lutheran congregations: 1. Growth is a congregational issue. Intervention from other organizations can help provide guidance, direction, and insights but in the end no one could do the work for them.

2. There is no “magic pill.” The study found there was no tool or program that consistently made a difference. Some things worked—some of the time.

Others worked—some of the time. What worked best was discovered in the context of the local congregation and community.

3. Size is not the issue. Some large congregations were growing as were some small ones. The reverse was also true. The size of the congregation had no direct correlation to their ability to effectively reach out.

4. Numerical growth was not the issue. Surprised?

Not one of the growing congregations had set a numerical goal for growth. There were no printed statements that predicted the congregation would be a certain size by a certain date. Growing congregations viewed numerical growth as a byproduct or natural result of their overall efforts.

5. One consistent finding among congregations that were experiencing numerical growth was an intentional decision on the part of leaders and members alike to be engaged in ministry beyond their own membership. WHAT they did, and HOW they went about doing it changed from place to place, but the WHY they did what they chose to do remained consistent.

It would seem from this study that the difference between congregations that effectively reach out and those that do not begins in their understanding of WHY they do what they do. When the focus of a congregation is internal, the choices they make most often reflect their own needs—paying the bills, staffing the programs, and keeping the congregation going. But when the congregation’s focus is external (focused on the needs of others) their choices more often reflect a desire to serve others as they themselves have been served without wondering how they will benefit from the effort.

Years ago, from his prison cell at Flossenberg, Germany, Lutheran pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, “The church is only the church when it exists for others.” Saint Paul expressed a similar “why” in his second letter to the church in Corinth when he wrote, “He (Jesus) died for all, so that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died and was brought back to life for them” (2 Corinthians 5:15). Even our Lord Jesus promised His followers that He would build His church (Matt 16:18), while our focus was to “make disciples” by going, baptizing, and teaching (Matt 29:19-20).

What opportunities has God given you to serve others? How has the Spirit been preparing people for the sake of His kingdom? Who might you partner with to create connections and develop relationships?

Remember there is no single “correct” answer. Each congregation must seek answers to these questions in the context of their own community. Lutheran Hour Ministries has tremendous resources to offer as we draw alongside you as your partner in ministry. From radio and online ministries that connect the Gospel to over 71 million people around the world each week to online and videobased teaching materials that support your efforts in reaching and teaching, we are your partner in ministry. Remember that it’s not about numbers, it’s about people. And it’s not about the survival of this organization or your congregation; it’s about Bringing Christ to the Growth in congregations involves focusing on Nations—and the Nations the needs of others, and a desire to serve. to the Church! n

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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Change the World: One Life at a Time

By Mike Merker

those in the “Touched by God’s Love” clinic.

What lasting impact has the Reformation made Crowds at the main stage will be treated to a on the world in the past 500 years? Lutherans music festival, complete with choirs, hand bells, across North Carolina will attempt to answer and regional performances. Dr. Seltz will address this question as they put their faith in action on Sunday, November 5. They invite you to gather with the company of believers two more times as well.

Simultaneously, a free health and personal care them at Dorton Arena on the North Carolina State clinic will minister to the Fairgrounds to participate in Change the World: One Lutherans will be engaged in physical and spiritual needs of the community Life at a Time. ministering to people of all by providing basic The celebration event will commence with ages, underscoring the fact medical screenings, vision screenings, dental care, worship, as thousands that we have first been loved and haircuts. are fed by God’s Word, Throughout the day, thus equipping them to by our Lord Jesus Christ.

Lutherans will be engaged immediately serve their in ministering to people of all ages, underscoring neighbors in the community. This day is reframing the fact that we have first been loved by our Lord how churches in the Raleigh area work together.

Jesus Christ. Displays from educators, service The skills of members across congregations are organizations, and charities from across the nation breathing life into the celebration. will demonstrate the great ways our Lutheran Following worship—led by Rev. Dr. Gregory heritage provides comfort, care, and training for Seltz of The Lutheran Hour—the afternoon will be comprised of events on the main stage, and the world: one life at a time.

To learn more, or to be part of the volunteer team, email info@trianglefaith.org. The event lasts Rev. Dr. Gregory from noon to 7 p.m. Please visit www.trianglefaith.org Seltz will lead worship, followed for hotel information, as well as a full schedule of by events on the events. n main stage such as a music festival, complete with choirs, handbells, and regional performances.

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

Rev. Merker is the event organizer, a supporter of The Lutheran Hour, and pastor of Jordan Lutheran Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.

LHM RESOURCES at your fingertips!

Free apps are available for Daily Devotions, The Lutheran Hour, video-based Bible studies, and other resources.

Visit lhm.org/apps or download from your device’s app store today!

Three New Courses Now Online S haring our Christian faith is a privilege and a gift.

In a world teeming with voices and viewpoints, simply establishing a bridge of communication with another person can be daunting. Add to that the hope of sharing the Good News of our Savior, and the effort can be a little paralyzing. Acutely aware of the need for people to share their faith in a way that’s sensitive to others and mindful of circumstances, LHM launched its initial set of outreach-oriented online courses on August 1.

These first courses—Intergenerational Mentoring and Sharing Your Faith Stories—each explore specific content where we can become more effective in conversations about faith. Each course is three to five sessions long, with each taking 30 to 45 minutes to complete. (Note: if you stop mid-stream before finishing a session, you will return to where you left off the next time you log in.) Courses feature a downloadable journal, a discussion guide, videos, Scripture passages (including audio), outreach scenarios, and more. A short quiz tops off each course and reinforces the materials studied.

Online courses from LHM fall within five different faith-strengthening categories.

They are • Christian Foundations (the basics of Christianity from Biblical, theological, and historical perspectives) • Cultural Concepts (resources to understand the different demographics, cultures, and religions in our world today) • Everyday Insights (thoughts about the good and bad that life throws our way) • Outreach Essentials (personal evangelism and tools to reach others with the Gospel) • Spiritual Reflections (devotional thoughts meant to strengthen and encourage)

A new third course—Christ and His Kingdom— falls under the Spiritual Reflections category.

These courses offer opportunity to reflect on Scriptures surrounding a general theme. Likewise, a downloadable journal is provided to reflect on the Bible passages, and it gives space to doodle and color.

“It is so important to be strengthened by His Word personally as you prepare to share the Good News of the Gospel with others,” said Ashley Bayless, instructional designer of these new courses.

As a way to augment course content, each Wednesday a 30-minute live webinar will address topics to help maximize each believer’s outreach potential. These informal webinars give individuals the chance to interact with the guest speaker by asking questions, offering suggestions and feedback, and sharing meaningful exchanges relative to their own personal experience in sharing the Gospel.

Since the launch of LHM’s new online courses, more than 800 people have signed up for one or more of the courses.

Beyond the U.S. and Canada, international interest has come from people in Nigeria, Turkey, Thailand, Switzerland, Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Guam, India, Philippines, and Brazil. Individuals from denominations outside The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod have come on board as well. These include Catholics, Episcopalians, and Presbyterians. Go to lhm.org/learn to find out more about this new and expanding offering of outreach-related courses. n

Outreach Resources at your fingertips!

Lutheran Hour Ministries offers free equipping resources to help you reach out with the love and Good News of Jesus Christ in your everyday life.

These online courses and webinars will cover five faithstrengthening categories and use an array of multimedia elements to help you gain a hearing for the Gospel message.

3

Individual, self-paced learning

3

Time for self-reflection and journaling

3

Optional small group discussion guides for home and congregational use

3

Easy access on any digital device—computer, tablet, or smart phone

3

A variety of learning methods designed for the adult learner

Register for FREE resources at lhm.org/learn today!

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

11

the

luther Effect 1 Then and Now

The three-DVD series on Martin carries numerous quotes that put the Reformation in perspective. Here are examples.

(Visuals of quoted experts are on page 14.)

SELTZ: 500 years ago, an unknown monk from a backwater town in Germany … set in motion a movement that would literally transform Western civilization. His name was Martin Luther….

4

SCHURB: Luther said, “… I am bound by the Scriptures …. I cannot and will not recant anything since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience.

Here I stand. I can do no other. May God help me. Amen.” … From the Wartburg … he translated the entire New Testament … into German so that people can have the New Testament in their own native language.

Sculpture here and on cover: by artist Philip Perschbacher

7 NUNES: The Reformation essentially was a global movement … it increases levels of literacy everywhere it goes. It honors the vocation of local people, of local workers, of local laborers, as work that is honorable. And it puts religion in its place with the “two kingdoms” theology that allows nations everywhere to flourish.

SCHURB: Luther did not hate the church; he loved the church. Luther wanted to get rid of things in the church that were against the Word of God. But he was not trying to get rid of everything. And that set Luther apart from a lot of the other reformers.

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8 DAWN: The Lutheran Reformation was based on theological disagreements … but the English Reformation was based more on power, economics, and King Henry VIII’s grudge against the pope.

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3

BIERMANN: (Later) in the Heidelberg Disputation, what Luther starts to advance is his teaching of the theology of the cross … he’s even challenging the idea that somehow we can earn our way into God’s forgiveness or that our good works count before God….

HAEMIG: He hoped to have a lively discussion … at the university in Wittenberg, based on his 95 Theses … but someone translated them into German, and they got printed.

And pretty soon they were circulating around Germany….

5 BIERMANN: Princes came together at Augsburg, and they presented … the Augsburg Confession …

It becomes the articulation of … the Lutheran faith.

MOBLEY: Non-Biblical practices entered the church … either imposed by the pope, or high-ranking church members. But there are a lot of practices, also, that entered daily life of the church through the people.

9 KARGES: Essentially, the Reformation created the modern world … new notions of learning, new notions of approaching Scripture, new notions of approaching your vocation, new notions of approaching international politics, new notions of approaching science.

6 NUNES: So … this thinking developed that the finished work of Christ, the atonement of Christ, was not enough … it was necessary somehow for the priest to continue sacrificing Christ, over and over again….

LAMPE: Pope Damasus ordered Jerome to give a fresh Latin translation of the Gospels … he would finish the Old Testament in the early 400s. We call that … the “Vulgate.” His biggest error was mistranslating the word “penance.”

That one error would lay the foundation for numerous errors for centuries to come.

BIERMANN: The church’s reach is everywhere, and when the church’s authority is questioned, it means all of society comes into question…. But God’s intention is to bring truth back to His church … the clarity of God’s truth is there. That’s the great heritage ….

SELTZ: The greatest thing about the Reformation are the solas: grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, Scripture alone … what it does is establish the worth of a human being … it’s done by God in Jesus Christ. n

see companion article on next page The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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Luther Effect… from previous page

E

Various Reformation Era experts appear in the Martin DVD series. Among them, from left: Dr. Joel Biermann, Dr. Russell Dawn, Dr. Mary Jane Haemig, Dr. Caleb Karges, Dr. Joel Lampe, Dr. Susan Mobley, Dr. John Nunes, Dr. Ken Schurb, and Dr. Gregory Seltz.

Reflections on the Making of Martin 3

xperts (shown above) who provided quotes for the series, A Man Named Martin, included in the previous two pages of this issue, along with LHM staff members have witnessed the completion of the third DVD of the trilogy with the recent release of A Man Named Martin—Part Three: The Movement. This video study has involved numerous LHM staff members such as those who worked on the script, shot the video, and wrote the discussion guide. Interested to get their “take” on the project, we put questions to Jim Burcke, Kari Vo, and Troy Teuscher—three people who worked hard on putting out this final Martin Luther piece—just in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.

Jim C. Burcke

Kari A. Vo

Troy R. Teuscher

manager, video production

theological writer

videographer/editor/producer

What have been some of the significant challenges in putting together the Martin Luther trilogy?

What were some of the challenges putting the discussion guide together?

There is so much historical information and multiple paths to take that it was difficult on occasion to decide what should be included. Decisions were sometimes based on the flow of the show and what would appeal to a larger audience. Another challenge was identifying and scheduling video interviews with the specific topical experts we needed for this piece.

It meant absorbing a lot of historical material, then trying to present it in a way that would be interesting and useful to people. I hope viewers and readers will get as much out of it as I did while working on it. The “Digging Deeper” links, which are set up now for expanded use, will make for easier access and convenience. It’s a feature change we’re making to previous study guides as well.

What did you learn personally about Luther and the Reformation that you didn’t know before?

What do you hope people will get from using the discussion guide along with watching the video?

In working on Martin 3, I was struck by the Reformation’s influence on so many areas of modern life. Things we take for granted like government, education, and science were all guided in some major ways by the Reformation. When you research the movement’s influence, you clearly see how and why certain areas of Western culture were radically touched by putting the truths of the Bible into the hands of lay men and women.

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

The Reformation was a fascinating time with major impacts on today’s world. I hope the discussion guide and video will help people see some of the mighty things God has done through the people of the Reformation and what He continues to do today in us.

Visit lhm.org/martin3 for details about ordering the new DVD!

What do you think will be the lasting value of this look at Luther and the impact of the Reformation?

The Martin Luther trilogy explores not only what happened during the Reformation, but also why things happened. Luther rediscovered the Gospel: the truth that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ alone. That rediscovery changed everything. The force of the Reformation was felt in government, and it impacted how kings and queens ruled their subjects.

It elevated education, marriage, and family, even as it addressed the concepts of individual rights, freedom of conscience, and personal religious choice.

Has your faith benefited from working on this project and, if so, how?

This project opened my eyes to the genius of Martin Luther and how the Reformation touched not only medieval society but ours as well. It has made me proud to be Lutheran. Martin Luther stood up against the most powerful authorities of his day. This one man, armed only with God’s truth, risked his life to change the world he lived in. And that change continues to transform the world we live in today. n

ON THE MOVE

By Kurt Buchholz, President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries

Continued

Movement!

I

t seems like summer just began and already school has started and anticipation of fall’s cooler temperatures grows. This is a time to be distracted by family vacations and what used to be a slower pace of life. For my family, this is a time of significant change. Our eldest daughter is transitioning to her first year of college, and we are filled with the mixed emotions that come along with a life milestone such as this. We could not be prouder of the young woman she has grown to be and know that she is well prepared socially, academically, and in maturity of faith to enter into this next stage of adulthood. At the same time, Jennifer, our youngest daughter, and I also understand with sadness that our home life will never be quite the same.

We know that God’s plan for His creation is not one of stagnancy but one of continual change, continued movement toward that day in which He has promised to return. So, it is no surprise that our children grow and change as they live into their callings and vocations.

I feel like Lutheran Hour Ministries is also transitioning with those same mixed emotions. We honor the foundations that were laid by those who led us to where we are today—and challenge our membership to build upon that leadership as they answer their calling to share the message of Christ with the world through their connection with LHM. We may find it difficult to move on from how things were and embrace what will become, even as we recognize that we must change in order to continue to share Christ’s message of salvation with a world that is continually evolving. Remaining relevant to new generations while at the same time steadfast to the mission of LHM is what we must be about. As Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus so poignantly said, “We must continue to present a changeless Christ to a changing world.” LHM is committed to doing just that as we find new ways to reach the unreached with the Gospel.

“We must continue to present a changeless Christ to a changing world.”

Celebrate with me as Mission U completes its transition to LHM Learn, an online curriculum for individuals and groups. This platform change is allowing us to reach an even wider audience and equip them to reach out with the love and Good News of Jesus Christ in their everyday lives.

Celebrate the continued success of THRED and Vivenciar—online communities where conversations are happening and the hope of the Gospel is being shared. Just as radio and TV expanded the reach of the Gospel message around the globe, THRED and Vivenciar are building on those foundations and reaching millions of people in a way that facilitates greater personal interaction around faith issues.

Celebrate LHM’s new partnership in the Middle East and North Africa where technology is being combined with satellite TV to reach into 15 Arabicspeaking nations. This expansion will allow people located in areas of great conflict and struggle to hear the message of God’s love in the privacy of their own homes.

We know that God’s plan for His creation is not one of stagnancy but one of continual change, continued movement toward that day in which He has promised to return.

Change is never easy, especially when the way things have been has worked so well, but without it we cannot live into our full God-given potential. And, just like our home life will change with our eldest off to college, we celebrate with her as she continues to become the person God is calling her to be.

LHM could not have arrived where we are today without the solid foundation that was laid by the visionary leaders we have had. I thank God for each and every one of them and know that nothing that is being accomplished today could have come into being without their faith and dedication to this ministry of proclamation.

Now is the time that God is calling me and you to build this course of stones so that the next generations can continue where we leave off—together living out our evangelistic mission movement, which we call LHM. We can proudly and faithfully proclaim that we have used every gift that God has given to us to be Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church, not for our own sake but to provide the essential foundation for those God will call to take up their Gospel tools and continue to build in faith until His return. n

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Worried about paying taxes on your IRA required minimum distribution? You can rollover those funds to causes you care about instead. You can avoid this tax obligation while doing what matters most—sharing the Good News.

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lhm.org/ira

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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In Love Came Down we see how the Heavenly Father spared nothing— not even His own Son—to work out our salvation. Though we had rebelled in our sins and spurned God and His Commandments, He chose us—not for exclusion, but redemption. The Father’s love sought us out in our perilous condition and, in His infinite mercy, bridged the divide to our isolation through Jesus—the one Mediator between God and Man.

Love Came Down: A Fresh Look at an Ancient Story

“Jesus came to be in our lives, a part of our lives, one of us. He came to be our Savior, and that is not a job someone can do by standing safely at a distance. Instead, He embraced our human nature—He was born, He grew, He lived, worked, and suffered, He died. And then He rose from the dead,” writes author Dr. Kari Vo.

By Paul Schreiber

“God saw to it that Jesus was indeed born in Bethlehem. …”

The story of our salvation is a hard-fought victory. What began in a humble manger stallisinloaded Bethlehem Christmas mornOld reached itshad zenith cripture withon familiar stories. stayed home, Jesus when Jesus—child of Mary, Sonwe of hear God—was rose not have been Testament or New, a few crucified, words ofdied, a and would from the passage dead three days Thisknow is what God did forthe us; this is born what in Bethlehem. and welater. often right where story’s going—Adam And God had promised happened when love came and down.Eve, Noah’s ark, David and Goliath, Daniel in the lion’s den. That’s a great years ago by the thing; we should be well-versed in the Bible, but prophet Micah that the sometimes knowing what’s next can undermine our Messiah would be born attention and focus. there and nowhere else.

This holds true even with the story of the Nativity.

“God saw to it that Love Came Down will be available to read online While the story, of course, the truth itself—is Jesus was indeed born in Bethlehem. God always or to hear as a podcast. These devotions can also timeless and ever fresh, the frayed mindset we bring keeps His promises, even if it takes influencing a be received as an e-mail subscription throughout to the miracle of Bethlehem—torn by the season’s Roman emperor to call a census affecting large the Advent season, beginning December 3. You demands on our time and senses—may have grown parts of the world. Even if it means breaking the can access the downloadable files, which include 660the Mason Ridge Center Louis, love MO 63141-8557 dull to magnitude of thisDrive, act ofSt.divine laws of nature, so a virgin has a baby. Even if it a large-print version, as well as bulletin insert, and mercy.

In Love Came Down, Lutheran Hour means sending His own Son into this world of 1-800-876-9880 • www.lhm.org • www.lhm.org/advent bulletin shell, and a PowerPoint slide on October 2.

Ministries’ Advent devotions for 2017, we encounter suffering and death so that we might be adopted as Audio availability begins on December 3 with Mark the narrative of the Messiah’s birth in some fresh children of God.” Eischer, senior producer for The Lutheran Hour, ways. They were written by Dr. Kari Vo, theological Of Love Came Down, Vo writes, “When I write reading the devotions. Visit lhm.org/advent for all writer for LHM’s U.S. Ministries division. devotions, I do the best I can to make each one the details. a kind of window through which readers can see A Spanish version of Love Came Down—Llegó the God who loves and cares about them.

That el Amor—will be available for print on October 2 “I hope that through these means trying to write as clearly as possible and and will go live on December 3. You can find that devotions, people will be always asking the Holy Spirit for help. God shows at paraelcamino.com/adviento. The regular Daily brought closer to Jesus Christ, Himself in His mercy, goodness, and holiness in Devotions from Rev. Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus every passage in the Bible—even in the ‘begats’ of for The Lutheran Hour, are suspended during the their Savior, who is the Love Jesus’ ancestry. I hope that through these devotions, Advent season; they will resume again on Sunday, that came down from heaven people will be brought closer to Jesus Christ, their January 7, 2018. n Savior, who is the Love that came down from heaven to make them His own.” to make them His own.”

Advent devotions Consider this reflection on a familiar passage from Lutheran Hour from Luke 2. “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, Ministries are ideal for from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of sharing with others.

David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was You can send them as Do you know a mission-minded individual who of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with an e-mail, print them is looking for a unique leadership opportunity?

Mary, his betrothed, who was with child” (Luke 2:4-5). and pass them out to Nominations for candidates to serve on the Board In the devotion “Keeping Promises,” Vo observes, students, friends, or of Directors of the International Lutheran Laymen’s “It must have been difficult for Mary to travel at participants in your League/Lutheran Hour Ministries are being requested nine months pregnant. The trip from Nazareth to Bible study. Youth now for next spring’s election.

Bethlehem was 70 miles as the crow flies, but there groups can listen to The Board is seeking dynamic, visionary candidates who are committed to were hills to climb the direct way. … Walking that them online, and helping LHM share the Gospel around the world to fill open director positions. far is no easy task. And in spite of all the Christmas they can be used You are urged to prayerfully consider the God-given talents, skill sets, passion cards and nativity scenes, we have no reason to as an introductory for outreach ministry, and service to the Lord of potential nominees from your believe Mary had a donkey to ride. I hope she did, meditation before personal and professional networks. In addition to being an LHM/Int’l LLL though. The trip must have been hard enough!

Sunday school member, all nominees must be members of a congregation of The Lutheran “I have to wonder why Mary made the trip at all. classes. As always, Church—Missouri Synod or Lutheran Church—Canada and cannot be Joseph had to register, but Mary could have stayed they’re perfect for ordained clergy. home and had her baby in her own home, with the one’s private time of To download a nominations form, or learn about additional eligibility help of relatives and neighbors. That sounds much devotion during the requirements for nominees, visit lhm.org/nominations. Nominations must be more comfortable, not to mention safer. But if she Christmas season. received by Nov. 1, 2017 to be considered. n

S

Board Nominations Open for 2018

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

NOT Just for Kids Anymore

“Children’s” booklets offered by LHM: Do You Know Who Jesus Is? The Christmas Journey, The Easter Story, The Bully, Sharing Your Faith, and Learning to Pray.

What do you do when you’re looking for the next topic of study for your adult Bible group? Use one of Lutheran Hour Ministries’ rhyming children’s booklets, of course! Here’s how that light went on for a congregation in Ohio.

One Sunday, instead of doing a Bible study lesson, Debbie Scheetz and her study group from Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Coshocton listened to The Lutheran Hour for inspiration. What they received was a fertile idea for the group’s next study focus.

During the Action in Ministry segment, they learned about LHM’s Do You Know Who Jesus Is? children’s booklet offer in an interview that featured Mark Debrick, principal at Zion Lutheran School in Harvester, Missouri; former LHM employee, Rich Cohrs; and Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz.

The pocket-sized booklet on Jesus, which is written in four-line rhyme and supplemented with beautiful illustrations, was ideal for the group’s next topic of study. Scheetz challenged members to find a Bible story of their own and set it down in their own words—using rhyming text. They were to then bring them back the following week.

While a few members were hesitant, other intrepid souls stepped up to the challenge, saying it would be fun to see what happens.

Of the activity, Scheetz said, “We had a really good discussion about how not having summer materials for a Bible study (a cost-saving measure) led us to be creative, leading us to use The Lutheran Hour on my phone, introducing it to others in the group, and then God connecting us to you as well. This experience has been refreshing to our group! Thanks for the certificates, books, and kind words! Our compliments to you as we read all your books and decided they are not just for kids!”

To honor their foray into the world of rhyme, participating group members were rewarded with a “Rhyming Writer’s Certificate”—a little reminder of how big ideas can come from unexpected places.

Suzie Sallee, coordinator of witness tools for LHM, says, “It was exciting to hear not only how much fun they had challenging themselves, but it gave them the opportunity to study other stories in the Bible to give inspiration to write their own verses!”

Sometimes one thing leads to another as well: in this case,

By Paul Schreiber

additional booklets were purchased by Emmanuel Lutheran to hand out during the church’s annual “Amazing Day Grace Camp” program, which is open to community children who reside in a poverty-stricken area.

Since their first release as individual titles, LHM’s children’s series of rhyming, illustrated booklets has found a large and expanding audience. To date nearly 800,000 copies have been distributed to churches and individuals across North America, with 10,000 of those—¿Sabes quién es Jesús? (Do You Know Who Jesus Is?) finding a home among Spanish speakers. Abroad, translations have been made into Indonesian and Indian languages, along with countries in South and Central America utilizing them as well. Other titles in the series are The Christmas Journey, The Easter Story, The Bully, Sharing Your Faith, and Learning to Pray. n

“It was exciting to hear not only how much fun they had challenging themselves, but it gave them the opportunity to study other stories in the Bible to give inspiration to write their own verses!”

Visit lhm.org/kids to learn more, read, and purchase these booklets.

Coloring Contest Promotes LHM’s Rose Parade Float The Petal Pushers, a group of 5,000 volunteers supporting the LHM Float in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, invites students from preschool through eighth grade across the United States to enter its seventh annual Petal Pushers Coloring Contest.

Here’s how to enter: • Visit www.petalpushers.donorshops.com/color.php. to download a coloring page.

• Complete the page by coloring the picture and entering the requested info in the appropriate spaces.

• Submit your entry to: Lutheran Hour Ministries Float Committee, P.O. Box 20044, Riverside, CA 92516-0044.

Four winners will be selected: • One winner from preschool-kindergarten; • One winner from 1st-2nd grades; • One winner from 3rd-5th grades; • One winner from 6th-8th grades.

Each winner will receive a $50 coupon to use on Petal Pushers merchandise from their online store, a Petal Pushers t-shirt and a Lutheran Hour Ministries Float magnet. The teacher of the winning student from each category also receives the same prizes.

Second and third place winners (students) will receive a Petal Pushers t-shirt and a float magnet.

Entries must be postmarked by Nov. 1, 2017. Be sure to provide all information requested on the coloring page; incomplete entries will not be judged.

Submissions will become the property of the Petal Pushers and will not be returned.

Visit www.petalpushers.org for more details or to download materials, or visit the site to learn more about the volunteer opportunities available through the Petal Pushers. n Petal Pushers® is a registered mark.

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New Partnership

Leads to

TV Programming in the Middle East

By Chad Fix

“This effort will provide hope for millions of people searching for answers.”

L

utheran Hour Ministries is excited to announce a new strategic partnership with SAT-7, the first and largest Middle East and North African Christian TV network. The two Christian broadcasters will work together to co-produce a new television series for Arab youth and young families from the SAT-7 studio in Cairo, Egypt.

“As a mass proclamation organization, our primary goal is to share the Good News with people who have little or no possibility of hearing the Gospel,” says LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz. “This partnership allows us to produce culturally relevant television programming that will be watched by millions of needy and hurting people throughout the region with a message that God loves them, a message that gives them hope for the future.”

SAT-7 CEO Dr. Terence Ascott adds, “SAT-7 works with many partners but one thing they all have in common is a commitment to Biblical truth and the importance of sharing the Gospel with people who have never had the opportunity to hear it before. We share these values and objectives with Lutheran Hour Ministries.”

“We are thankful that through this partnership with SAT-7 we can capitalize on each other’s strengths in bringing the love of God in all its fullness to the people of the Middle East and North Africa,” says Dr. Douglas Rutt, who directs LHM’s international ministries.

This expansion of LHM’s ministry work in the Middle East and North Africa will potentially reach tens of millions of viewers in more than 15 countries spanning from as far west as Morocco to as far east as Iraq and the Persian Gulf. The new television programming, which will be a variety show format

aimed at starting discussion and offering hope through the Word of God, will be carried on the NileSat satellite.

Eric Gates, LHM’s regional director for Africa and the Middle East, is pleased: “I can think of no more compelling way to fulfill LHM’s mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church than to expand our mass media outreach throughout the Middle East. Our goal is to become a visionary creator of original Arabic content for the region, while providing the best care and nurturing possible to those seeking to learn more about Jesus.”

The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) has been engulfed in turmoil and suffering for decades, but especially over the past five years. People have fled by the millions to refugee camps and abroad amidst fear and insecurity. Political turmoil, social instability, and high unemployment rates are leaving millions of Arab youth disillusioned and hopeless.

Disproportionally affected, the youth make up nearly 60 percent of refugees in many camps throughout the region and young adults are often the first affected in war, either fighting or fleeing.

“Hearing the Gospel through mass media from the privacy of their own homes may be their only opportunity to hear it at all,” says Gates. “This effort will provide hope for millions of people searching for answers.”

LHM has started the process of hiring script writers and actors in hopes that the first broadcast will air this fall. The SAT-7 television studio, operated by local Egyptian personnel, offers high quality technology and services for Christian media production.

“When we have worked with other ministry partners, we’ve produced programs in their facilities in Europe,” says Ascott.

“As a mass proclamation organization, our primary “This partnership with LHM a new opportunity goal is to share the Good News with people who provides in that we are providing the

have little or no possibility of hearing the Gospel.”

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The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

facilities and technology to produce the content.”

This strategic ministry partnership will also involve future opportunities for coordinated audience relations follow-up, new approaches to social media engagement, joint fundraising, and joint research initiatives.

What can you do? First, pray for the safety of everyone living or working in the Middle East and North Africa. A recent increase in attacks targeting Christians presents additional difficulties for Christian ministries working there. Shining the light of the Gospel into the region has never been as important as it is today.

You can also help provide a vital lifeline to the people of the Middle East and North Africa through your financial support. Many people in the region are unable to attend church services due to lack of access, and are often persecuted for even trying to attend.

However, your support will help broadcast His love directly into the safety of their homes, wherever they may be. You can make a difference by assuring His truth is available when seekers need it the most!

For more information, visit lhm.org/MENA. n

LHM Brings Hope to Indonesians Affected by Eruptions

Mount Sinabung is one of the most active volcanoes on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. After 400 years of dormancy, the volcano erupted in August 2010 and has shown periods of increased activity since 2013. This once-bustling farming village that is ideally located on fertile slopes has now turned into an eerie ghost town. Tens of thousands of people abandoned their homes and belongings in these villages after authorities ordered mandatory evacuations to prevent further deaths.

Following the most recent eruption this past spring, LHM–Indonesia staff conducted

and medical workers who have hearts to serve people who are suffering, LHM reached out to children, adults, and the elderly in three different camps over three days. Eight doctors and three medical workers conducted medical exams and provided treatment while LHM staff members offered clean water, good health tips, and spiritual strengthening through a variety of resources such as Bible Correspondence Course materials, films, and activity books for children. Nearly 2,500 people participated in the program and shared their personal information with staff for follow up.

“Outreach programs like this have proven to be an effective way of demonstrating and telling people of the love of Christ.” a holistic program for victims in Berastagi, North Sumatra. These people have been living in tents in refugee camps for the past seven years and most can’t go back to their homes to retrieve their belongings. Now they can only rely on the kindness of the government, which sometimes is not able to give the appropriate attention that these refugees need.

In partnership with a local team of doctors

“Outreach programs like this have proven to be an effective way of demonstrating and telling people of the love of Christ,” says Gunya Na Thalang, LHM’s regional director for Asia. “Most of these people are tired, frustrated, and generally disappointed with life. By offering a message of hope we can have a comprehensive impact in reaching both body and soul.” n

Building on a

Strong Legacy

By Brad Neathery

T

he mission and vision of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ through mass media has been at the core of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries for almost our entire 100-year history. Working through media platforms, whether they are radio, TV, or the internet, offers the opportunity to present the Gospel message to a larger audience than could be achieved person to person. We trust the Holy Spirit to work through this Gospel presentation as part of an individual’s journey to faith.

The Lutheran Hour has been presenting the changeless Christ for more than 85 years. There is great strength in this tradition as well as an unending need to evolve how the Gospel message is shared to reach people today.

Two former speakers of The Lutheran Hour, Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus and Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer, will be behind The Lutheran Hour microphone beginning Nov. 5. They will assist in the transition of this ministry as it remains a critical part of Lutheran Hour Ministries’ media outreach. Their return speaks to the long history of The Lutheran Hour and its unchanging mission to share the love of Jesus.

There is great strength in this tradition as well as an unending need to evolve how the Gospel message is shared to reach people today.

Building on this legacy, Lutheran Hour Ministries has partnered with the Lutheran Legacy Foundation to provide sustained future funding towards the enduring mission outreach of The Lutheran Hour in the United States and around the world. A special fund has been established with the Lutheran Legacy

Foundation which named the endowment for Public Proclamation. Lutheran Hour Ministries will have sole use of this fund to support Gospel proclamation ministry.

As part of this partnership, the Lutheran Legacy Foundation will match 40% of the first one million given by individuals like you towards this endowment. That’s $400,000 in matching funds to help proclaim the life-saving Gospel!

Any person can donate to this endowed fund. Individuals wanting to support this endowment can give directly to LHM, which will process all gifts to the endowed fund. To direct your gift to the endowed fund for Public Proclamation, simply note that your gift is for “LLF” or “Public Proclamation endowment.”

If you want to sustain Gospel ministry into the future, please consider joining LHM in this exciting opportunity! To learn more, please visit lhm.org/llf. n The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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A THRED Dialogues participant responds to Jesus’ words about prayer in Matthew 7, “If you, then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him?”

Highlights: Pops,

Dialogues, Groups

By Greg Koenig

THRED’s Chris Paavola, center, invites participants to react to Jesus’ teaching on money, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

I

f you have visited—or even participated in—LHM’s new THRED digital outreach ministry, you know that THRED is more than a website, more than a Facebook page: it’s an environment designed to welcome a diversity of opinions, generate thoughtful conversations about life and faith, and even build virtual community. How THRED achieves this is due in part to special features that invite interaction—features such as the THRED Pops and THRED Dialogues videos, as well as Facebook community groups.

THRED Pops Since early 2017, pastor, author, speaker and YouTuber Matt Popovits has contributed short videos full of insight and attitude to THRED. Called THRED Pops, the videos offer Matt’s witty yet thoughtful takes on things that a lot of people wrestle with.

In a video titled “Is Truth Dead?” Matt goes headto-head against the current idea that since truth is so often considered relative, it is no longer important: “When you let go of a love for truth—wherever it leads and whatever it demands—you lose touch with the divine,” he says. “The truth not only pulls us out of our [isolated personal] enclaves, not only moves us forward as people, but lifts us up, to consider another world, to perceive a deeper reality.”

Following up an initial THRED Pops series that also included titles such as “We’re All Religious,” “Get 20

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

Over Yourself,” and “God Offends Everybody,” THRED brought Matt back for a second round of videos.

THRED team member Megan Panarusky says to look for these titles, and more: “Canceled Plans” (an analogy for grace!), “The Key to Joy” (living for others), and “Thank God for Pain.” You’ll find round-two THRED Pops videos at facebook.com/ourTHRED or THRED.org.

THRED Dialogues THRED’s launch earlier this year included the ministry’s first set of the THRED Dialogues—a twelvepart series of videos hosted by THRED’s Chris Paavola and depicting roundtable discussions about the words of Jesus in the Bible. Churched and non-churched people confronted the miracles of Jesus—their reliability and believability; the message of Jesus on sin, hell, heaven, forgiveness, salvation, and love; and the moments of Jesus—in particular, His death and His resurrection. When the videos were posted on Facebook, they often generated spirited conversation in the Comments section.

And more THRED Dialogues have arrived! New roundtable discussions feature topics such as Compassion, Anxiety, Lust, God’s Kingdom, the Devil—and more.

Look for them at facebook.com/ourTHRED or THRED.org.

… an environment designed to welcome a diversity of opinions, generate thoughtful conversations about life and faith, and even build virtual community.

THRED Communities This spring THRED launched its first Facebook group—the THRED Dialogues Discussion Group.

Followers of THRED were encouraged to join indepth discussions about the topics addressed in the first round of THRED Dialogues videos. There are 69 members in the group—who as of this writing are all waiting patiently to begin discussing the new series of THRED Dialogues!

Experience International Missions the Easy Way

By Chad Fix

M

In late June, THRED kicked off another Facebook group—one dedicated to forming community around topics of life and faith. This group’s inaugural discussion centered around the topic of rest and relaxation. THRED team member Rachel Legoute reports that when participants were surveyed, all of them said they were happy that they were a part of the group, and “several people remarked that they hoped it would have lasted more than a week!”

Upcoming topics include kindness, contentment, and stress relief.

Jump into the fray of diverse opinions on THRED and experience this unique ministry. See how the Holy Spirit is working through THRED’s witness of open, friendly, candid dialogue. Join the countless others who are praying for In “Busy, Not and supporting this Hurried,” Matt outreach! n Popovits challenges THRED Pops viewers to consider that while “busy happens, hurry burdens.”

Greg Koenig reports on the impact of LHM’s THRED outreach.

uch of the church’s enthusiasm for evangelism and mission involvement is fueled by opportunities for “hands-on” service and learning alongside Christians around the world. Parishioners travel across the globe to meet, work with, and witness to people in other countries who need to hear about the eternal life God offers through Jesus Christ.

But what if you could experience a mission adventure like this without ever leaving the comforts of your own church or home? Lutheran Hour Ministries offers a unique chance to do this through its Online Mission Trip. Originally started as a virtual mission trip for just Lutheran school students in North America, this year’s trip to Cambodia will be available to everyone—including not only schools, but Bible study groups, Sunday school classes, and even Cambodia’s society is rural and agrarian but enjoys a high individual adults. degree of literacy; in this environment, our ministry’s Bible A new interactive website will house the program’s four 20-minute pre-recorded videos that will engage the senses Correspondence Courses and Equipping the Saints evangelism training programs are effective in educating and pique curiosity while offering insight into ministry in a different part of the world. This website will walk through people in Christian teachings and in reaching out to others. The ministry’s emphasis on youth outreach makes each day’s videos and offer a more in-depth, interactive use of music events, film shows, and technologies such as experience! The site will also provide curriculum for the internet and text messaging to attract classes to dig deeper into the geography, … this year’s trip young people, present a Christian message, culture, and customs of the country as well as online meeting places through social to Cambodia will and offer opportunities to learn more.

Make plans now to journey with us to a media to allow individuals and schools to be available to country with unique culture, fascinating engage with one another and LHM. This will allow for the conversation to continue everyone—including history, amazing wildlife, and exciting beyond the day-to-day video segments. not only schools, but ways to share Jesus. More details about the upcoming Online Mission Trip, including LHM reaches people in Cambodia Bible study groups, registration information, can be found at with strategies that are tailored to share Sunday school lhm.org/onlinemissiontrips. n the Gospel in a culture that is slowly recovering from being devastated Chad Fix oversees the corporate classes, and even and impoverished by a communist communications of LHM. individual adults. dictatorship during the 1970s. Much of

… what if you could experience a mission adventure like this without ever leaving the comforts of your own church or home?

In this issue of The Lutheran Layman, you can explore two exciting new ministries: THRED and LHM’s online courses and webinars. These ministries, based in the digital space, were created to impact two distinctly different audiences, those looking to grow in their faith and those who are not connected to the church. Lutheran Hour Ministries’ prayer is that we will follow God’s guidance so He can reach new people through these ministry initiatives. To increase the impact of these digital ministry projects, all donations made in response to this issue of The Lutheran Layman will be designated to Digital Ministry projects. If you would like your support to be used for another ministry purpose, please let us know on your check or the enclosed business reply envelope.

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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Impact on the Individual!

Compiled by Gerald Perschbacher

T

he Reformation that began in 1517 has never The impact on individuals was lost its importance to the individual, as emphasized by Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz in emphasized on The Lutheran Hour in the years this broadcast on October 25, 2015: “Every leading to the milestone anniversary. generation, every church, every one of us “Who in their right mind is going to celebrate the is called to that kind of faith; that kind of fact that … 500 years ago, a German monk nailed discipleship, and that’s what it means to be 95 debating points onto the door of a church in a follower of Christ….

Wittenberg, Germany? … Which is why we often end “The Reformation was a call for the up saying: ‘Most of what Martin Luther did was very church, Christ’s church, to become Christ’s nice, and we’re glad he did what he did, but that was a church for others again. What a challenge long time ago, and it doesn’t have much to do with us. … and that’s exactly what happened when We live 500 years after Luther … and to ask people to Luther rediscovered the Good News of remember some nail pounding for 500 years is simply the Gospel; the freedom that comes by asking too much of them. Five hundred years has faith in Christ. changed things. Nowadays it seems like most religions “The Reformation brought a are getting along,” said Pastor Ken Klaus six years ago freedom of faith back into the on The Lutheran Hour message dated October 30, 2011. people’s lives, the church’s lives, even the Klaus added, “Luther … knew he was a sinner. community’s lives … when Luther nailed the theses, it He tried, desperately tried, not to be one, but he wasn’t a protest. It was a call to God’s people to come was. He fasted until he fainted; he confessed his home to the grace and the Good News of Jesus. transgressions until his priest got bored with the “The Reformation message was very simple—the endless and repetitious list of wrongdoings … fear of just shall live by faith. That’s simple, but it’s really Divine anger became Luther’s motivating force … .” profound when you think about it. … All of us are a Then Luther was asked to teach at the relatively new bit nihilistic and self-centered in our hearts. So, God Wittenberg University. “As he prepared for his classes is calling all of us to the gracious life of faith. It’s the on Psalms and Romans, he found that the Psalmists power of God at work in our lives. were confident that not only did God love them, they “This is powerful stuff because Christ dealt with the were also convinced that they were forgiven and things that we need to deal with in our lives and in our would enter heaven when they died. In the book of world. Real justice is needed so that there can be real Romans, the third chapter, Luther read that while all mercy in your life. Did you ever notice … you need have sinned and fallen far short of God’s expectations, both …? they are declared forgiven and free of their sins if “Some today have faith in their companies. They’ve their repentant hearts are given faith in God’s Son. got faith in their jobs, faith in their societies, faith He learned that which had been forgotten: that while in their politics, faith in their money, faith in their God is a God of justice, He is also a God of grace. So sinful humankind could be saved, “… when He sent His Son to redeem us, Luther nailed to pay the price which would buy us back from sin, the devil, the theses, and death … . it wasn’t a “God grant a Reformation protest. It Day, a Restoration Day to our land; God grant a Reformation was a call to Day, a Restoration Day for God’s people sinful human hearts. You see, to come all of what I’ve said is quite inconsequential unless you, home to the yourself, by the grace of God, grace and the through the love of Jesus and Good News the power of the Holy Spirit, have a heart that is reformed.” of Jesus.”

“The Reformation message was very simple—the just shall live by faith.” wealth, their relationships. They even have faith in themselves. All those things eventually come to nothing … .

“The Reformation brought the real question back.

What’s sustaining you today? … It’s Jesus Christ; there’s power in that faith because Jesus Christ is the source of it all.

“As we believers are on this pilgrimage, we’re reminded that Jesus Christ is the Bread of Life, and that Martin Luther brought the Good News of the Gospel back to the western world. This is the food that sustains. This is the message that heals. We’re privileged to know Jesus Christ by grace through faith; and the just shall live by faith.

“Five hundred years ago, a monk—a simple, pious monk—tacked something on a church door because he cared about his people and he knew the power of this Jesus Christ and all that that means in knowing Him. “Every Reformation, I want you to realize that there are three Reformers … ; the first Reformer is our heavenly Father who made real freedom possible when He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins; who makes daily this freedom possible for all who believe. … This offer is for you because of who God is for you in Jesus Christ. The third person is you. You were reformed on your Baptism day. God literally buried your sins on the cross with Jesus Christ and He now raises you up in the waters of new life of your Baptism. You’ve had your Reformation Day; now live that Reformation life so that all might know that Jesus Christ is your Savior, too. That’s the freedom that comes in Jesus Christ alone, by faith alone, through the Scripture alone, in Christ alone. … I’d stake my life on it, and now you can, too.” n Dr. Gerald Perschbacher serves as editor of The Lutheran Layman and manages the LHM Research Center Archives.

By God’s grace, your prayerful financial support of The Lutheran Hour makes this witnessing possible!

22

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

LHM-Russia’s ministry workers organize Luther materials

Reformation Anniversary

Opens Doors for

Proclaiming

Christ

“This is an excellent opportunity to tell this story and for the children to make it their own.”

By Chad Fix

S

oon, Lutherans throughout the world will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, recognizing the momentous event when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the Castle Church door in Wittenberg, Germany, and set off one of the most important movements in history. With it being a popular and current news story, the anniversary is also serving as a unique opportunity to proclaim Christ around the world since many people are curious about Luther and the Reformation.

LHM–Russia has been preparing for the anniversary in several ways. Experts produced six months of radio programs about the history of the Reformation led by a scholar from our partner Ingrian Lutheran Church. The weekly programs ran on the Trans World Radio affiliate in St. Petersburg and were repeated several times throughout the past year.

The ministry center also produced Russian-language versions of the two booklets Martin Luther: A Treasure Revealed and Who are the Lutherans?, as well as short books on the Apostles’ Creed and St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians that are being shared with churches throughout the country as an outreach tool.

LHM–Russia also advertised in a commemorative Reformation magazine published in Kursk its 12-part Bible Correspondence Course entitled

Left: LHM-Russia’s Reformation magazine Right: LHM-Uruguay’s “Luteraventuras” photos via social media

“Steps of Faith” that teaches the history and basics of Christianity.

The LHM–Korea ministry staff uploaded A Man Named Martin with Korean subtitles onto its Facebook page as a promotional video. Several thousands of individuals quickly viewed the video and hundreds have been sharing it with others through their personal pages. The staff also fielded dozens of calls each day from individuals, churches, and schools who want to know more about Martin Luther and LHM’s work after watching the video.

daily routines and then upload them through social media using the hashtag #luteraventuras.

“To our surprise, many kids have had fun with this project showing great adventures with Martin,” says the director of LHM–Uruguay. “This is an

excellent opportunity to tell this story and for the children to make it their own. We are delighted that our ministry has served as ‘godparents’ of this important initiative, making known our legacy as Lutherans in such a special year.” n

Our Family.

Our Mission.

Our LHM.

… the anniversary is also serving as a unique opportunity to proclaim Christ around the world since many people are curious about Luther and the Reformation.

A unique project in Uruguay called “Luteraventuras” involves students in fifth and sixth grades as well as the first year of high school (11- through 13-year-olds). Students received a Martin Luther Playmobil figure to take home for the week, along with the book Martin Luther: The Man Who Changed the World, so they could learn more about the reformer’s story. The students were then asked to take photos showing the figure involved in their

OurLHM is a new online space where you can see how God is working through you and the entire LHM family! The stories on this page will keep you informed on our latest news, share stories with you of how your support has impacted lives, allow you to witness how God is working through everyday people, and give you a first-hand look at the work being done globally to share the Gospel.

Visit lhm.org/ourlhm today!

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

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Two Hot Subjects Now in Demand J

ust as the formation of the Lutheran Laymen’s League a century ago left an impact on generations that followed, and just as the Reformation of 500 years ago has made an indelible impression internationally that continues to the present, it isn’t surprising that those events are the subject of books and articles for laymen and churchmen in this anniversary year.

Called. Equipped. Sent.—Inspirations from 100 Years of Sharing the Gospel is the title of the LLL/LHM book highlighting the lively Gospel outreach supported by the motivated laity and pastors. The 137-page, softbound book topically aligns quotes from program notables such as Dr. Walter A. Maier, founding Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, who launched the first broadcast in 1930, and Dr. Oswald Hoffmann, who held the longest tenure as Speaker and who traveled the world in promoting the Gospel. Topics in the book preserve well-chosen quotes under 11 categories. Here are some samples: “Say what you will about our country’s various needs, the supreme necessity for this perilous hour pleads, ‘America, bring back the Bible! … We believe that the Bible is God’s Word because of its divine power exerted on every page of history … because of its miraculous influence on human souls.” – Rev. Dr. Walter A. Maier, 1942 (page 20).

“There is only one radiant certainty in our changing world, the certainty that possess the quality of all that is eternal. That certainty is God Himself.” – Rev. Dr. Oswald Hoffmann, 1957 (page 20).

“You have the helmet of salvation. When you wonder if God loves you, or you’re tempted to think you are alone, the Holy Spirit guards your mind and reminds you that you are a redeemed child of God.” – Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, 2012 (page 25).

“The Lord Jesus has won the ultimate victory over sin, death, and devil. While there are still good-and-evil skirmishes being fought in this world, God’s Word and Sacraments assure us that nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God, which is ours via Christ’s life, death, and rising.” – Rev. Dr. Kenneth Klaus, 2015 (page 36).

Since such messages were an outgrowth of the Holy Spirit’s leading through Scripture, and since the Reformation of 1517 did so much to freshen the necessity and boldness for such messages, it is timely for individuals in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod to renew their appreciation for the freely expressed Gospel message. The book, Voices from an Older Time, compiled, translated, and edited by Rev. Dr. Jack D. Ferguson, examines the manner in which the church body saluted the Reformation a century ago, at the 400th anniversary.

In 125 pages, hardbound, the editor sets the theme by stating the international situation in 1917. “Nations were in turmoil, a world war was in progress, the 24

The Lutheran Layman September - October 2017

By Gerald Perschbacher

original documents. In both cases of these two books mentioned, colorful and poignant visuals accompany the texts. Both books urge sincere introspection on the subject of being reformed by the grace of God in Christ, and how to face the future with its challenges and opportunities. For information about Called.

Equipped. Sent., call 1-800-876-9880 or visit shoplhm. org. For Voices from an Older Time, send an email to revferg@lhi.net.

The Way of Concord, from Historic Text to Contemporary Witness, was written by Rev. Dr. Robert Kolb with Rev. Dr. Charles P. Arand, and comes from Concordia Seminary Press, St. Louis. Softbound, with 145 pages, the handy-sized book explores six chapters covering an introduction to the Book of Concord, the Formula of Concord as a model for discourse in the Church, confessing the faith and the Wittenberg way of life, plus more. The list concludes with a chapter titled, “I Make These Confessions My Own” as an application to the 21st century. Indices of Scripture passages, names, and subjects provide added applications.

In retrospect, the Book of Concord was a capping achievement to the stress and turmoil that grabbed religious circles in the 1500s and presents an approach and pattern for faith that is alive Top: Dr. Martin Luther Bottom: Dr. Walter A. Maier and well even today. Thus, this book keeps the interest active for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, and for subsequent years far into the future. “Melanchthon, Luther, and the entire Wittenberg team did not realize how sacred the text of the Augsburg Confession would become as it achieved status as a secondary authority, a ‘Binding Summary, Basis, Rule, and Guiding Principle,’ and an explanation of ‘how all teaching is to be judged in accord with God’s Word….” (pages 85-86). For more details on this book, check store.csl.edu/the-way-of-concord/ or contact avem@csl.edu.

Far from being the final published work on the subject of anniversaries is the Spring 2017 issue of Concordia Historical Institute Quarterly, which includes a 53-page in-depth article by the “Say what you will about our current editor of The Lutheran Layman, who also serves as chief historian on staff at the LLL/LHM. country’s various needs, the supreme This league, formed during the 400th anniversary year necessity for this perilous hour pleads, of the Reformation, was established by a dozen men ‘America, bring back the Bible! … ‘“ “of means who often heard the pleas of individuals and changing world. One source indicated the unique organizations in need. The men exhibited a willingness nature of that 400th anniversary celebration, and much to help their church body; otherwise they would not the same can be applied to the 500th. The text went on, have accepted the invitation” (page 11). Tackling one “We want the new blessings of the Reformation which project after another on the way to launching The are coming upon us, (and) to very clearly reach out Lutheran Hour on radio, the article precisely follows and heartily thank God for the same.” A further point original documents of the LLL’s early years, tapping the indicated the importance that individuals in “the main collection of rare documents housed at the head Lutheran Church … outwardly make known as far as office for LHM based in St. Louis. Such a detailed story possible their principles and their doctrines” (page 27). of the launch of the LLL/LHM has never appeared in Concordia Historical Institute, the department of print previously. For details about ordering, contact archives of the LCMS, was instrumental in providing the chi@lutheranhistory.org or call (314) 505-7900. n United States of America had recently stepped onto the stage of that war … and in different parts of the world including America, the Lutheran Church was either attempting to free itself from the burdens which pietism, rationalism, and unionism had imposed … or it was living under effects of many of those impositions” (page 15).

Tracing comments (in German and translated to English) from that era allows readers to grasp an appreciation for the unchanging Gospel amid a