Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 13:24–30, 36–43 (ESV):

The Parable of the Weeds

He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?’ He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ So the servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

The Parable of the Weeds Explained

Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

13:24–30 The master does not seem overly upset by what his enemy has done and shows great patience in delaying until the harvest the separation of weeds from wheat. He warns his servants not to judge prematurely by assuming they can distinguish between these plants. A mark of God’s rule is His patience (2Pt 3:8–15). For us sinners, this is a great comfort and also an encouragement for us to endure evil patiently (2Tm 2:24). • O God, help me to accept the fact that in this world good and evil will grow side by side. Lead me also to count on Your wise timing and judgment. Amen.

13:36–43 At the close of this present age, the Son of Man will send His angels to gather all people. The law-breakers will suffer eternal punishment, and the righteous will enjoy the Father’s heavenly glory. Since all people are law-breakers, all deserve to be cast into the fiery furnace. Only those who have faith in Christ will escape this fate. They are declared righteous (Rm 3:21–26). “He who has ears, let him hear” (v 43). • Bless me, Jesus, with a believing heart, that I may remain a child of Your kingdom. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

13:24 them. The crowd (vv 2, 34). kingdom of heaven. Remaining parables in this chapter make comparisons to aspects of God’s kingly rule (cf v 11; 3:2; 4:17). compared to a man. Another parable about a sower, but one with a different problem. Jesus will interpret this parable in vv 37–43.

13:25 weeds. Likely bearded darnel, which is botanically close to wheat and difficult to distinguish from it when the plants are young.

13:28–29 The master’s servants inquired whether they should collect the weeds prior to the harvest. But pulling darnel weeds, with their strong and deep roots, would uproot the emerging wheat plants.

13:30 burned. To prevent the weeds from spreading seed and causing future damage, they were burned after being separated from the wheat. barn. Wheat was stored for future use.

13:36 house. See note, v 1: «The owner is not named but may have been Peter (v 36; 8:14).» Explain. In contrast to those who rejected Jesus, the disciples persisted in seeking understanding. Jesus explained vv 24–30, interpreting seven key elements: sower, field, seed, weeds, enemy, harvest, and reapers (vv 37–39). “You must always have God’s Word in your heart, upon your lips, and in your ears. But where the heart is idle and the Word does not make a sound, the devil breaks in and has done the damage before we are aware” (LC I 100).

13:38 field. Represents the world, where “the sons of the evil one” continue to live. See Ap VII and VIII 17–19: «[17] Why say more when the matter is clear? If the Church, which is truly Christ’s kingdom, is distinguished from the devil’s kingdom, it follows necessarily that the wicked are not the Church, since they are in the devil’s kingdom. It is true that, because Christ’s kingdom has not yet been revealed, the wicked are mixed in with the Church and hold offices. [18] But the wicked are not Christ’s kingdom, even though that revelation has not yet been made. For Christ enlivens His true kingdom by His Spirit, whether it is revealed or is covered by the cross, just as the glorified Christ is the same Christ who was afflicted [John 17:1]. [19] Christ’s parables clearly agree with this. He says, “The good seed is the children of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one” (Matthew 13:38). “The field,” He says, “is the world,” not the Church. John the Baptist speaks about the entire Jewish people and says that eventually the true Church will be separated from that people. Therefore, this passage is more against the adversaries than in favor of them, because it shows that the true and spiritual people are to be separated from the earthly people. Christ also speaks of the outward appearance of the Church when He says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a net” (Matthew 13:47), likewise, “ten virgins” (Matthew 25:1). He teaches that the Church has been covered by a lot of evils, so that this stumbling block may not offend the pious, and so that we may know that the Word and Sacraments are powerful even when administered by the wicked. Meanwhile, He teaches that these godless people, although they have fellowship in outward signs, are not Christ’s true kingdom and members. They are members of the devil’s kingdom.»

13:40 Parable illustrated the final judgment.

13:41 gather … all law-breakers. Hus: “They gather up from the kingdom of holy church all that offend, that is, those who commit iniquity, namely, the sin of final impenitence” (The Church, p 41).

13:42 fiery furnace. Image of punishment in hell (cf 3:12; 18:8–9). gnashing. See note, 8:12: «Grinding one’s teeth because of the spiritual and emotional pain and anger accompanying this torturous ordeal (cf 13:42).»

13:43 shine like the sun. The righteous will reflect light similar to Jesus at His transfiguration (17:2; 1Co 15:39–49). their Father. Jesus referred to the righteous in the third person to indicate a future event.

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMSModVtPT0

Gospel According to Matthew, 13:24–43 (ESV):

The Parable of the Weeds

He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?’ He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ So the servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he said, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

The Mustard Seed and the Leaven

He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”

He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

Prophecy and Parables

All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed, he said nothing to them without a parable. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.”

The Parable of the Weeds Explained

Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all law-breakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

Transcript

Hello. Today, let’s talk about what to do with evil.

The text before us is from the Gospel of St. Matthew, the thirteenth chapter, verses 24–43. (Matthew 13:24–43)

Introduction: Joe and the Blended Family

Joe was a child of a blended family. His sister and brothers had the same father, but their father had had a couple of different wives. Some of the kids felt inferior. Some were angry. One was even violent.

Joe was one of the youngest. By the time he was growing up, the family was absolutely dysfunctional. Joe was picked on, belittled, and abused. He loved his moments of solitude whenever he could be alone by himself. But he hated when all of the family got together. Family or not, they just did not seem to be very nice people.

Can you imagine what holidays were like for Joe? Family celebrations were anything but joyful. Like Macaulay Culkin in the movie Home Alone, I’ll bet that there were times when Joe said, “I wish I never had a family.”

Admittedly, this is not a very nice thing to say, but sometimes this may be our response when facing inconsiderate people, or insensitive people, or just plain mean people. We may feel that way about certain politicians, or popular religious figures, or our neighbors, coworkers—yes, even people in our own family.

In fact, this is what is going on in the Gospel lesson for today. Jesus tells a parable, recorded in Matthew chapter 13, about a farmer who sowed some seed. But while he was sleeping, an enemy sowed tares, or weeds, in that same field. As the crop began to appear, it was obvious that the wheat and the weeds were coming up together. The servants came to the farmer and offered a solution: “Let us tear up the weeds. We can pull them out. We can get rid of them.” (Matthew 13:24–30)

Jesus explained the meaning of the parable in this way: “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the whole world. The good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom. But the weeds are the sons of the evil one. And the one who sowed them is the devil.” (Matthew 13:36–39)

Point One: What Shall We Do with Evil?

The very normal reaction to evil is to want to get rid of it. “Let’s just get rid of them. Let’s pull them up and get them out. I wish I never had a family.”

But the Lord counsels against such action. Why? Well, doesn’t He know how hard it is to live with these people? Of course He does. He knows better than you do what evil people are like and what evil people do. Look at the direct results of evil men as they crucified the Son of God.

But God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8–9), and He counsels us not to pull them up or get rid of them.

First, God would remind us that we cannot separate ourselves from evil people. Jesus said, “As long as you are in the world, you will have trouble. But I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

On this earth, we cannot escape evil, evil people, and painful and unfair situations. This is the nature of our lives on this earth.

Second, we cannot eradicate or destroy evil. It is beyond our ability to get rid of evil. Instead, we must learn that we can trust God. He has all power and all authority. (Matthew 28:18) We must trust Him that He is over all and governing all. He alone is sovereign, and all things are answerable to Him. He will deal with evil in His own way and in His own time.

God is watching evil, but God is also watching us. He is doing what is best, because all things work together for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purposes. (Romans 8:28)

Third, remember that the weeds are not able to stop the wheat from growing and bringing forth their grain. The weeds cannot steal the nutrients from the wheat. In fact, I think that it is because of the weeds that we are able to recognize the wheat for what it is. It is even more clearly wheat when we see it in contrast with the weeds.

In other words, as the Bible says, the trials and sufferings of this life actually help us by purifying our faith and increasing our reliance upon God. (1 Peter 1:6–7)

Point Two: Judgment Is Coming

In all of this, we have only been looking through human eyes. But what about God’s perspective? What does God see?

Truthfully, we cannot know all that God sees when He looks at a field of the world filled with both wheat and weeds. Honestly, we would have to acknowledge that there is some pretty persistent weed growth even in our own lives. If God were to pull up all of the weeds on the earth, surely He would be pulling out a significant part of Curtis Leins.

But thankfully, God is merciful, and God has a bigger plan. Jesus explains that there is not going to be a separation of weeds and wheat until the Day of Judgment. Yes, all of this is leading to a Day of Judgment. On that day, weeds and wheat will be separated. On the day of God’s wrath and judgment, there will be a separation of weeds from wheat. (Matthew 13:40–43)

And although you and I justly deserve God’s present and eternal punishment, God has determined that He will place the penalty and punishment of all the sin of all believers onto His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, upon the cross. (Isaiah 53:5–6)

And for that reason, on account of our faith in God’s Son, our Savior, we can face the Day of Judgment knowing that we will receive God’s mercy. This is not because we are not sinful or evil ourselves, but because God has given us faith in Jesus Christ. And because of faith in Christ, we are counted as righteous. (Augsburg Confession, Article IV)

We are forgiven. We are cleansed. We are redeemed.

There is only one name by which we can be saved. There is only one Savior who can forgive sins and provide the gift of eternal life. And that one is Jesus Christ. (Acts 4:12)

You see, that puts all of the other people and all of their anger and their evil into a bigger picture. Judgment is coming. Because of our faith in Jesus, we will be forgiven and saved. But there are many who do not know Him. They will face God’s judgment and wrath as weeds gathered and thrown into the fire. (Matthew 13:40–42)

Admittedly, we do not like to hear this kind of language. The problem is, this is the language of the Son of God, the Savior who cannot lie. This is the Word of Jesus Christ. There will be judgment.

Do not try to eliminate or destroy evil. Leave that to God. Instead, trust God. He is at work in ways that you cannot know or understand.

Trust God. He has His eye on you and upon your life. He is at work in your life, using you not only for your good, but for greater and bigger good that you cannot yet understand.

Trust God and grow wheat. Grow as God uses you to share the Gospel and bring in the harvest that you may not even know. It is God’s plan that you are to share the love of Jesus and the forgiveness of Jesus with those who do not yet know Him or have faith in Him. It may well be that God is planning to use you to bring an unexpected brother or sister into the family of God.

Conclusion

We began with a story about a boy named Joe from a blended family. You want to know what happened to Joe?

Surely there were times when Joe wished that he never had a family. In fact, there came a time when Joe was sent away from his family. It was for his own good. Joe was sent to another place, a city he did not know. He became part of another family. Eventually, he married and had his own wife and children.

It was only after many, many years that Joe became reconnected with his siblings. Circumstances had changed. His father was old and tottering. His brothers were older too. The family farm had fallen on hard times, and his family came to him for help.

Imagine that. The boys who hated him were coming to him for help.

This is the story of Joseph and his brothers, the sons of Jacob. (Genesis 37–47) Joseph, who was now ranked second only to Pharaoh in all of Egypt, received his brothers and gave them food and possessions and fertile land. He forgave them of their evil deeds. They wept together and were restored as a family, with affection for one another. (Genesis 45:1–15; Genesis 47:11–12)

Joseph declared that what the enemy meant for evil, the Lord used for good. (Genesis 50:20)

Did you hear that? What the enemy meant for evil, the Lord used for good.

Beloved, we will have evil with us always. But what evil has done to you, leave to God. Let Him deal with it in His own way, in His own time. In the meantime, trust God. Trust God and be at peace.

God’s eternal judgment—well, it is coming. So act like God’s good seed and bear good fruit. Trust God, who can use even the likes of you and me to bring in a great harvest of unexpected brothers and sisters into His heavenly family.

Amen.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 13:1–9, 18–23 (ESV):

The Parable of the Sower

That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.”

The Parable of the Sower Explained

“Hear then the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

13:1–9 Jesus earlier told His disciples: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (9:37). This parable gives encouragement that when a laborer faithfully sows the seed, a plentiful harvest may follow, even if some seed goes to waste. We are tempted to give up a task when we experience little success. That is also true of our efforts to share the Gospel. Let us not grow weary in doing good, knowing that at the right time we will reap, because God provides the harvest (Gal 6:9). • Give me patience, dear Lord, when the tasks of life seem hard and unending. Amen.

13:18–23 Jesus explains the parable of the sower for His disciples. He wants them to understand that as they go out and preach the Gospel, not all the seed they sow will produce fruit. But what keeps a farmer sowing and a disciple proclaiming is Jesus’ promise that some seed will produce a wonderful harvest. The lesson for us is obvious: the blessings of God’s kingdom come through the seed of God’s Word. • O divine Sower, keep me from becoming discouraged as I entrust my life to Your Word and seek to share Your message of salvation with others. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

13:1 same day. Jesus’ third major discourse followed immediately after He experienced rejection from “this evil generation” (12:45). See “Order and Meaning in the Story,” p 1577: «In the Gospels, the teachings and events of Jesus’ life are not simply gathered together randomly but are presented (narrated) for the instruction of the reader. Matthew’s account illustrates this clearly by the five sermons, or discourses, that organize Jesus’ teaching into blocks (chs 5–7; 10; 13; 18; 24–25). The passages before and after each saying or event often help the reader interpret their meaning and role in the larger story. The study of these relationships (narrative criticism) is important for interpreting and applying the Gospel message. In other words, it is important to study the story as Matthew presents it before comparing his account with other Gospels.» house. The owner is not named but may have been Peter (v 36; 8:14). sea. Galilee.

13:2 into a boat. See note, Mk 3:9: «The crowds, for all their affection, were about to trample Jesus. For His own safety, as well as for the welfare of those around Him, Jesus sought refuge in a boat.» sat down. In biblical times, teachers taught while sitting (5:1; 24:3). crowd stood. Those assembled onshore.

13:3 parables. Matthew’s first use of this term, which refers to short stories or wise sayings in a variety of literary forms, including proverbs, maxims, allegories, fables, comparisons, and riddles (cf Ps 78:2; Ezk 17:2). See note, Jgs 9:8–15: «Jotham’s parable features plants that can speak, representing various rulers; first parable recorded in Scripture. Jotham’s story did not oppose kingship but rejected Abimelech as king. The olive tree, fig tree, and vine all produced abundant food in the land, but the bramble was worthless and its thorns were harmful. The parable also voiced a warning to the Shechemites. If they had not made their choice in good faith, and if their choice did not give proper recognition to Abimelech’s father and his family, the “bramble” would stir a fire that would devour their beautiful “cedars.”» All of Jesus’ parables here focus on the working of God’s kingdom (cf 6:9). Four parables in this chapter were spoken to the crowd (vv 3–9; 24–35) and four to the disciples (vv 36–52). sower. Farmer planting seeds. See note, Mk 4:14: «Those sowing God’s Word include Jesus Himself, the first disciples, and all subsequent teachers and preachers of the Gospel. The administration of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are included in this sowing activity.» sow. See note, Mk 4:3: «After seed was sown, an oxen-drawn harrow (or even a flock of sheep or goats) was driven through the field to turn the soil over the seed.» Jesus interpreted this parable of the sower in vv 18–23. Some modern interpreters have argued that parables are best interpreted by reducing them to a single point or truth. However, the way Jesus interpreted and applied some of His own parables (e.g., vv 36–43, 49–50) should guide how we interpret and apply them today.

13:4 path. Packed-down soil.

13:5–6 See note, Mk 4:5–6: «Shallow soil over large stones warms up quickly after the winter cold, and so helps the seeds germinate and sprout quickly. Because such soil has no depth, however, the seedlings cannot sink healthy roots.»

13:7 See note, Mk 4:7: «A variety of thorny weeds grow in Israel, some as tall as 6 ft. Like all weeds, these deplete the soil of nutrients, leaving little for the plants being cultivated.»

13:8 produced. See note, Mk 4:8: «This plant produces grain abundantly in comparison to the single grain sown. Even a hundredfold increase is attested! Cf Mt 19:29.»

13:9 Cf 11:15. Jesus meant this agricultural example to have a deeper spiritual meaning, which His hearers needed to carefully consider. See note, Mk 4:9: «Jesus challenges the hearer to consider carefully what has just been said and apply it to his or her life. This saying appears frequently in the NT (e.g., Mk 4:23; Mt 13:43; Lk 14:35; Rv 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22).»

13:18 Jesus will interpret vv 3–8 for His disciples.

13:19 word. Note the sixfold repetition in vv 19–23. See note, Mk 4:14: «Those sowing God’s Word include Jesus Himself, the first disciples, and all subsequent teachers and preachers of the Gospel. The administration of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are included in this sowing activity.» of the kingdom. Gospel message that Christ is the messianic King who rules (4:17; 9:35). God’s rule springs from His Word. not understand. Jesus uses the examples of three different soil conditions to explain why hearers failed to understand the Word, something Isaiah also experienced (vv 14–15). evil one. Satan. sown in his heart. The Word is heard but quickly rejected. See note, Mk 4:15: «Just as Jesus can and will be rejected, so also His Word can suffer opposition. The human ego is not the only obstacle to the Word’s reception. Satan and his evil hosts also work vigorously against the Word.» “Those fussy spirits are to be rebuked who, after they have heard a sermon or two, find hearing more sermons to be tedious and dull. They think that they know all that well enough and need no more instruction” (LC I 99).

13:21 no root in himself. The Word is heard but does not produce a vigorous root because the soil lacks depth. tribulation or persecution. See note, Mk 4:16–17: «Many converts joyfully begin a walk in the faith but then turn away when difficulties come. tribulation or persecution. Difficulties and troubles will come to all believers, even as they once came to Christ. That is why Jesus repeatedly warns people of the perils of following Him (8:34–35; Mt 10:22) and why His apostles repeatedly urge believers to persevere, despite trials (Gal 6:9; 2Tm 2:1–7; Heb 12:3–11; Jas 1:12; 1Pt 1:13–16; Rv 2:10; 3:11).»

13:22 See note, Mk 4:18–19: «Like thorns that choke a growing plant, so the worries and pleasures of the world eradicate the feeble understanding of the Gospel.»

13:23 understands. Understanding the Word is the Father’s gift to His children (v 11; 11:25). bears fruit and yields. The seed of the Word of God is good and will produce abundant fruit.

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psIMhOJlyxE

Gospel According to Matthew, 13:1–9, 18–23 (ESV):

The Parable of the Sower

That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat down. And the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.”

The Parable of the Sower Explained

“Hear then the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”

Transcript

Hello. Today’s message is titled “Because You Are His.” The text is the Gospel according to St. Matthew, chapter 13, verses 1–9 and 18–23 (Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23).

Introduction: A Trip to Disney World

Timothy Jones tells the story of his adopted daughter and her trip to Disney World. Jones explains, “Our middle daughter had been previously adopted by another family, but after a couple of rough years, they dissolved the adoption, and we ended up welcoming an 8-year-old girl into our family.

“For one reason or another, whenever our daughter’s previous family vacationed at Disney World, they took their biological children, but they left their adopted daughter behind. This happened, the child believed, because she had done something wrong. So, by the time we adopted her, she had seen many pictures of Disney World and had heard about all of the rides and characters, but she had never entered the gates of the Magic Kingdom herself. She had always been left behind.

“When our family found out about this, we determined to take her to the Magic Kingdom. But as our vacation time approached, something unexpected happened. In the month leading up to our trip, our new daughter stole food, when all she needed to do was ask. She whispered insults and made trouble with her older sister. She began to exhibit all kinds of naughty behavior. It appeared that she was trying to sabotage her own trip.

“A couple of days before we headed to Florida, I took her aside and put her on my lap.” Timothy Jones said that before he could say a word, she declared, “I know what you’re going to do. You’re not going to take me to Disney World, are you?”

She knew that she could not earn her way into the Magic Kingdom. She had tried and failed at that many times. Now, she was acting in such a way that she would place herself as far as possible away from Disney World.

Jones writes that he was tempted to turn her fear to his advantage: “If you don’t start behaving better, you’re right. You won’t get to go.”

But by God’s grace, he said no such thing. Instead, Timothy Jones said this to the child: “Is this trip something we are doing as a family?”

She nodded, brown eyes wide and tear-rimmed.

“Are you part of this family?”

She nodded.

“Then you are going with us. Sure, there may be some consequences to help you remember right and wrong, but you are part of our family, and we’re not leaving you behind.”

It would have been great if her bad behavior had straightened out immediately, but it did not. Her behavior actually grew worse and pretty much spiraled out of control. Still, the appointed day arrived, and the family packed up and headed for Florida.

Jones writes, “Overpriced tickets, overpriced meals, lots of lines mingled with just enough manufactured magic to consider maybe going again someday.”

That night, in the hotel room, a very different child emerged. She was exhausted, pensive, and a little bit weepy. But her month-long rebellion was over.

As she prepared for bed, Jones asked his adopted daughter about her first day at Disney World. She closed her eyes and snuggled down into her stuffed unicorn. Then she opened her eyes ever so slightly and said, “Daddy, I finally got to go to Disney World. But it wasn’t because I was good. It’s because I’m yours.”

Yes, that’s the point. Adopted into the family, she got to go to the Magic Kingdom not because she was good, but because she was his.

Point One: Growing Opposition

Please keep this story in mind as we look at the Gospel lesson, the parable of the sower and the seeds (Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23). You’ll notice that the passage begins with the words “on that day.” This is a clue that the parable that follows is a response to what has happened immediately before in the last chapter.

Jesus was meeting ever greater resistance. The scribes and Pharisees had determined to put a stop to him. Many in the crowds were having second thoughts about Jesus, and even John the Baptist sent some men to express John’s doubts and misgivings about Jesus. The disciples were wondering why Jesus was being greeted with growing opposition.

As the Lord was preparing to answer, the message came that his mother and brothers were outside wanting to see him. The answer that Jesus gave to his disciples came in two parts.

First, he explained that his mother and his brothers were those who did the will of his Father in heaven (Matthew 12:46–50). This is very important. Jesus is telling us that his family is different than we might first think. His family consists of those who do the will of the Father in heaven.

John 6:40 tells us what Jesus says, “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I myself will raise him up on the last day. (John 6:40)” So the will of the Father is that we would believe in Jesus. So if you believe in Jesus, you are his mother, his brother, his family. And the second part of his answer comes in the form of today’s parable. Why the growing opposition?

Point Two: The Parable of the Sower

Jesus tells the story of an extravagant sower. He broadcasts his seed everywhere. Jesus is teaching us about the heart of God. God’s love is without limits. God loves everyone with indiscriminate and lavish affection. Even when people are hard of heart, God still cares for them. He sends his seed, that is the Word of God, and he gives his gifts to all. God’s passionate love is for everyone. God’s passionate love is for you.

Jesus teaches that the seed, that is, the message of God’s love, falls on four different kinds of soil (Matthew 13:3–9, 18–23).

First, some seed falls on hard footpath. The Word penetrates even the hard hearts, but those people do not receive it, and the devil comes and steals it away right out of their hearts.

Second, some of God’s Word falls on the shallow or rocky soil. Much of the ground in Palestine was like this. There was a thin layer of earth on top of a layer of rock just beneath the surface. These people hear God’s Word, but it has no root. When difficulty comes, it burns up, and the people turn away from God.

Third, some of the Word of God falls among weeds and thorns. These people are distracted by their selfish desires for comfort or ease or wealth. Their faith is choked out, and they too fall away.

Finally, some of the Word of God falls on good soil. God sends his living Word. It works in their hearts, giving them faith. They do not reject the gift of faith, and the faith grows into a wonderful harvest.

We are to understand that God desires that all would be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). For that reason, God sends out his Word to everyone everywhere. But many do not receive God’s Word of salvation. This is how Jesus answers his disciples’ concern about the people falling away and the opposition that Jesus is receiving from so many.

Point Three: By Grace Through Faith

Unfortunately, there are those who misunderstand this parable. Some people say that the four soils represent any human heart. They mistakenly say that all four types of soil may be found in every person. They declare that every heart is sometimes hard, sometimes rocky, sometimes thorny, sometimes good.

That is not what Jesus is saying. Quite simply, the heart is sound and the soil is good only if there is faith in that heart. Without faith, the soil is bad. With faith, God says the soil is good.

You may be wondering about that. Can’t unbelievers and evil people do good works and have good crop? No. From God’s point of view, only those with Christ in the heart can do good works. That’s because the works are not good on account of what they do. The works are good on account of whose they are. Though all human works contain sinfulness and selfishness, when God sees the works of the believer, he only sees Jesus Christ.

There are others who misunderstand the parable. They say that everyone who wants to go to heaven must himself make a good crop. They think that they must make themselves good soil and make their own good crop. If they are good enough, they think they will be in God’s family.

This too is wrong. Scripture says there is not one who is good, no, not one (Romans 3:10–12). All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). The Scripture is clear. If I have to earn my place in heaven, I have no hope of getting there.

But Jesus takes your sins. Jesus suffers your punishment. Jesus dies your death. Jesus gives you complete forgiveness. Jesus fills you with the Holy Spirit. And Jesus makes you a child of God, all by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9).

Conclusion

What is Jesus teaching in today’s Gospel? Our God is an extravagant God. He is extravagant in his love for you. He sows his saving Word everywhere upon everyone. All who receive God’s Word by grace through faith will bear a good harvest. That just comes naturally, because faith in Jesus produces good works in the sight of God.

But this parable is not about doing good works. It’s about God’s gift of faith. God’s Word goes out and creates faith in the human heart. Some reject the faith for various reasons. But others, in them, faith grows and produces a good harvest.

Salvation is not the result of good harvest or good works. Salvation is the result of faith, faith born of the Word of God freely sown and received. This is the will of the Father, that you believe in his Son (John 6:40). To believe is to become part of the family of God.

You are adopted. You are a child of God by the work of the cross, by the Word in your heart, by your faith in God’s Son.

Once there was an 8-year-old girl adopted into a family. She finally got to go to the Magic Kingdom. Now you are adopted into a family, the family of God. You are adopted not because you’re good, but because you’re his.

Amen.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 11:25–30 (ESV):

Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest

At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

11:25–30 The thing hidden from the wise and understanding is God’s gracious plan of salvation, the message that both Jesus and John the Baptist proclaimed. Jesus’ contemporaries by and large rejected Him, preferring to live under the heavy yoke of the Law as the way to salvation. Jesus invites us to receive the yoke of the Gospel, which guarantees true rest. • Dearest Jesus, I praise You that when I am yoked to You, no burden is too heavy. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

11:25 Jesus thanked His Father for revealing the truth of the Gospel to little children rather than having the knowledge of salvation depend on human wisdom. Jesus referred to His followers as the “little ones” (10:42) and pointed to a child as the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (18:1–4). Those considered wise by earthly standards regard the word of the cross as folly (cf Is 29:14). Bern: “Those who are led by this Spirit, they are sons, and cannot be kept from their Father’s council” (SLSB, p 150).

11:26 gracious will. God gives grace to the humble but opposes the proud (Jas 4:6). Cf Lk 1:52.

11:27 See note, Lk 10:22: «All things. Jesus claims to have received from the Father an absolute authority over all creation. No higher Christological claim appears anywhere in Lk and Ac. no one knows. Human beings can know Jesus as the Son of God only by the gift of faith, which God alone can give (cf Mt 16:16–17). the Son chooses to reveal Him. Likewise, no one can know the Father apart from the revelation of the one true God given through the incarnation of His Son, Jesus (cf Jn 1:1, 14, 18). There is a perfect relationship of trust and understanding between Jesus and His Father.» “The majesty of the divine nature is communicated to the human nature” (CT I).

11:28 rest. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Php 4:7). “Here there are two parts. The ‘labor’ and the burden signify the contrition, anxiety, and terrors of sin and death. To ‘come to’ Christ is to believe that sins are forgiven for Christ’s sake. When we believe, our hearts are brought to life by the Holy Spirit through Christ’s Word. Here, therefore, are these two chief parts: contrition and faith” (Ap XIIA 44–45).

11:29 yoke. Wooden crosspiece fastened over the necks of two animals. Jewish rabbis spoke of the “yoke of the Law” as glorious obedience to God, which freed one from obligations to the world and gave rest. (Cf Ecclus 24:23; 51:26.) Jesus described this yoke as heavy (Mt 23:4) and offered His alternative, to be yoked with Him to the Gospel. One yoked to Jesus will find rest. See note, 12:7: «mercy, and not sacrifice. People in Hosea’s day put a greater priority on offering sacrifices than on steadfast love of the heart. The Pharisees prioritized the details of the Sabbath law over mercy. guiltless. This principle of mercy over sacrifice and the authority of Jesus shielded His disciples from guilt.» Luth: “The yoke that Christ lays upon us is sweet, and His burden is light (Matt. 11:30). When sin has been forgiven and the conscience has been liberated from the burden and the sting of sin, then a Christian can bear everything easily. Because everything within is sweet and pleasant, he willingly does and suffers everything” (AE 26:133).

11:30 Jesus has carried all our sins and sorrows to the cross. His presence and forgiveness lightens every load. Bern: “Testimonies of the Truth console me, which wonderfully raise up those whom they make humble, instruct while they humiliate. Thus this same Hand that casts me down raises me up again and makes me sing with joy.… This marvel the word of God, living and efficacious, produces” (SLSB, p 62).

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4uN7cKGiow

Gospel According to Matthew, 28:16–20 (ESV):

The Great Commission

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Transcript (with references)

Hello. Today, let’s talk about what to do as you go. The text before us is the Gospel of St. Matthew, the 28th chapter, verses 16–20 (Matthew 28:16–20).

Introduction: Return to the Great Commission

A great mass of Norwegian settlements located themselves in the Homestead Act triangle of the upper Midwest. 800,000 Norwegians came to North America between 1825 and 1925. In 1920, almost 80% of the 1 million Norwegian Americans lived in this region. Specifically, Norwegians seeking land moved into Minnesota and Iowa and the Dakotas.

The state church of Norway is Lutheran, so the vast majority of those Norwegian immigrants were Lutheran. Similarly, the great flow of German immigration took place in the same period of time. But the German immigration was six times larger. Nearly 6 million Germans moved into this country from 1820 to 1920. They also sought land that was similar to their homeland for farming and settlement. And as you might expect, of the 6 million German immigrants, millions of them also were Lutheran.

Between the Norwegians and the Germans, not to mention the Swedes and Danes and Finns, Lutheran immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries kept North American Lutheran churches filled to overflowing. There really was no perceived need for evangelism. The need was instead to build more churches to accommodate all of those new Lutherans who were pouring into this country.

That is not the case today, beloved. Ours is a different day in God’s salvation history. One hundred years after the end of the enormous Lutheran infilling of North America, statistical growth in the Lutheran Church has ended. We have entered a period of numerical decline in the Lutheran Church in North America.

We could console ourselves by saying, as we first heard in 2006, America is a post-Christian nation, and our response could be fear and trembling and sickness unto death, to quote Søren Kierkegaard. But no. No, it is for this time that God has appointed us to be born. We cannot count on millions of Lutheran immigrants to populate our churches.

So what shall we do? We will return to the Christian faith of the Holy Bible. Amen. We will return to the Great Commission of Jesus. Amen. We will learn from our Lord Jesus and his disciples of the first century that an essential part of our Christian faith is sharing our Christian faith.

Point One: Compassion of Christ

Today is not so different from the time of Jesus. Our Lord saw, to quote Matthew 9:36, the multitudes, and he felt compassion for them because they were distressed and downcast, like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:36).

Jesus felt compassion. The word compassion in Greek is splagchnizomai (https://biblehub.com/greek/4697.htm). It comes from the word for intestines. Jesus was deeply moved by the spiritual need of the people, so much so that he got the equivalent of a stomach ache. His heart was troubled. His emotions were moved. And Jesus saw people who were depressed and downcast, as sheep without a shepherd.

The word “depression” literally means torn, as when you have been in an accident and your flesh is torn open. The word “downcast” pictures one lying down on the ground helpless. This is an image of the spiritual condition of the people whom the Savior saw. It was as if they were travelers on the road of life who had been ambushed, beaten, bloodied, left for dead on the side of the road.

It was to these people that Jesus sent out his first disciples to be good Samaritans and to demonstrate the Gospel (Luke 10:25–37).

Can you see a parallel to today? Our world is very much like the world at the time of Jesus: false religion, self-indulgence, immorality. Folks who have been spiritually ambushed, bloodied, beaten, left for dead on the roadside of life.

Today, many folks do not know the truth of God’s Law or the blessing of God’s Gospel. We’re surrounded by men, women, and children who do not know the love of Christ or the grace of faith in Jesus. They need a good Samaritan who will demonstrate and declare the Gospel.

Point Two: Co-laborers with Christ

Jesus invited his disciples to join him in the work of sharing the Gospel with the world. Jesus said, “Beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into the harvest” (Matthew 9:38).

First, Jesus said, “Beseech the Lord of the harvest.” That means pray to God the Father. Pray for God to send missionaries and pastors and evangelists. Yes, please pray for our seminary, for our church body, that the Lord of the harvest will bring laborers from the north and the south, from the east and the west, and then send them forth. Yes. Amen. Please pray.

But Jesus also sent the laborers that he already had. Today, who are those laborers that Jesus already has? They are not only the ordained who are called to share the faith. Every Christian is called and sent to speak about his or her faith in the Savior.

You have a word to share about what Christ means to you, how he has saved you and blessed you. Many people who are spiritually hungry are not asking for doctrinal explanation or biblical exegesis. They’re in need of a genuine word about a personal faith in Jesus. Can you tell her how your trust in the Savior sustained you? Can you share with him how your faith in Jesus helped you?

Surely the ordained have a special place in the harvest. The ordained receive the yoke of the ministry of Word and Sacrament. That means that they are given responsibility for public preaching and public teaching. But pastors also are given a stricter judgment for what they teach (James 3). They are held accountable before the throne of God for the souls in their keeping (Hebrews 13). They must be apt to teach sound doctrine and to refute heretical doctrine (Titus 1).

Theirs is a public office, a vocation given by the Church to represent Christ in preaching the Word, administering the Sacraments, and shepherding souls. But all Christians are called to share their faith in their own private and personal vocations. Every Christian is a member of the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9).

Each one of you is called to share your faith in your personal relationships: parent to child, friend to friend, one to another, and especially with those in need. Jesus has called every Christian to enter the Lord’s harvest and to become active in the holy work of spiritual care.

Look around you. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few (Matthew 9:37). You are a laborer for Jesus Christ. You are called to share your faith with someone near.

Point Three: Commissioned by Christ

In today’s Gospel, Jesus gave his disciples the Great Commission: “Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

Many Bible translators have been careful to point out that a better and more literal translation of the words of Jesus would be, “As you go, disciple all nations” (Matthew 28:19). The emphasis is not so much on the “go” part, but more on the “disciple” part, and not so much on the “go” as in to a foreign land, as much as “as you go,” meaning wherever you are.

I have wonderful friends who responded to the Great Commission of Jesus in the 1970s. They moved to South America. They are spectacularly courageous and faithful saints. They have had an incredibly productive ministry. Each and all of us can be encouraged by their lives of faithfulness. And if God calls you to go in that way, by all means, you must go to that foreign land to which you have been called.

But I think that this passage also is saying something to those of us who do not move away to a foreign country. Christ’s Great Commission is saying to you: when you go, wherever you go, and as you go to school, as you go to work, as you go to the store, as you go down from Jerusalem to Jericho, be on the lookout for those beaten and bloodied and on the side of the road of life (Luke 10:30).

As you go, keep the eyes of your heart open. Keep your spiritual ears open. Care for them. Show them the love of Christ. Speak to them the name of Jesus. That’s how you disciple. To make a disciple, you simply must be a disciple. That is, love, care, and share Jesus with them.

The Savior made you a disciple. The Savior will make him or her a disciple, too. You’re only the laborer. Jesus is the Lord of the harvest. Jesus is the Good Samaritan. He is to you and he is to all of us who are spiritually beaten and bloodied travelers on the road of life. Trust him to use you. Jesus has promised you that he will be with you and within you (Matthew 28:20). He is alive in you, teaching you to be a good Samaritan too.

Conclusion

Beloved, today there are no millions of Lutheran immigrants flooding into this country. Instead, there are millions of people who do not know God and do not believe in his Son. They are living in this country. This is not for our discouragement. It’s for our encouragement.

As you go, keep the eyes of your heart open. Keep your spiritual ears open. You are surrounded by men, women, and children who do not know the love of Christ or the grace of faith in Jesus. They need a good Samaritan, and you know the true Good Samaritan, for he is living in you.

So, as you go, disciple. Amen.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 10:34–42 (ESV):

Not Peace, but a Sword

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

Rewards

“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

10:34–39 The radical nature of following Jesus may result in conflict and divisions within families. Jesus wants His disciples to strive for eternal life, even if this means sacrificing earthly benefits. In all honesty, we must confess that we often fail to put Jesus first in our lives, that we do not take up His cross and follow Him. What we fail to do, Jesus did for us. He took up His cross and paid the penalty for the sins of the world. In Him, we have peace. • Thank You, Jesus, for bearing my cross on Calvary and making me Your highest priority. Amen.

10:40–42 Jesus says much about the difficulties that the disciples will encounter as they carry out their mission. But He concludes His sermon by promising a reward to those who support the Gospel message and fellow disciples. Yet no reward can match the blessings of grace given to those who repent of their sins and believe in Jesus as their Savior (Eph 2:8–10). He gives peace with God, patience in time of tribulation, confidence to pray, and finally eternal life. • Loving Savior, I deserve no reward for my words and actions. Yet You promise rich blessings to those who receive the Gospel. Thank You. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

10:34 not … peace, but a sword. Likely surprised the disciples, because earlier Jesus had told them to “let your peace come” on the houses they entered (v 13). Jesus wanted them to realize that His coming was like a sword that split families in two: some were for Him, some were against Him. See note, Ac 14:22: «strengthening the souls. Encouragement affects their whole being. through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. Evident here from Paul’s suffering (cf 2Co 11:23–29). Pressure, hardship, and opposition are to be expected by God’s people on their earthly journey toward their full experience of His heavenly kingdom. Bern: “None the less ought we to sympathize with our friends whom we see placed in care and grief” (SLSB, p 47). “They will bring every possible misfortune and grief upon us. For where God’s Word is preached, accepted, or believed and produces fruit, there the holy cross cannot be missing” (LC III 65). Luth: “Curses will not be lacking. But go forth to face them more boldly, be strong, and cling steadfastly to the blessing, no matter how much everything seems to be full of a curse. For this is what we should conclude: It is sure that I have been baptized. I have heard the Word from the mouth of the minister. I have made use of the Sacrament of the Altar. This is the divine and unchangeable truth. Even though I am weak, it is sure and unalterable.… You are children of the kingdom, your sins are forgiven, the devil has been overcome and laid low under your feet, sin and death will do you no harm; but you are blameless. Therefore bear the hostile curses with equanimity” (AE 5:145–46).» This same division will be evident in the last judgment.

10:36 person’s enemies … own household. Cf v 21. Jesus distanced Himself from His own family, some of whom did not believe in Him (12:46–50; Mk 3:21; Jn 7:5).

10:37 loves … more than Me. More important than loving parents and other family members is loyalty to Christ. not worthy of Me. Cf vv 11, 13. To value family more than Jesus means that one is not fit to be a disciple. Bern: “Although it is impious to despise a mother, yet to despise her for Christ’s sake is most pious” (SLSB, p 212).

10:38 take his cross and follow. The cross represented death; it was common for Romans to crucify criminals. Jesus expected His followers to be willing to die, if necessary, rather than to give up their commitment to Him.

10:39 Contrasts earthly and eternal life. Clinging to earthly life forfeits eternal life, but losing one’s life for Christ’s sake gains real life.

10:40 The disciples were authorized messengers of Jesus. To receive them was the same as receiving Christ and the Father who sent Him (cf v 14).

10:41 Not only the apostles but also others served as Gospel witnesses. receives a prophet … righteous person. See p 1904: «received. Gk paralambano, a technical term for the receiving of a divinely given tradition (cf 1Co 15:1–3). righteousness. Gk dikaiosyne, the same Gk root term as “justify.” Christ’s righteousness, His holy “status,” was conferred and credited to the world’s account because of His death and resurrection (Rm 5:20–21; 1Co 1:30).» reward. See note, 5:12: «Rejoice and be glad. The source of joy for a disciple who suffers persecution is the promise of heaven. reward. Though Jesus used this term when referring to heavenly blessings, He taught that the reward would be based on God’s goodness, not the amount of work done (cf 20:1–15). Any reward our heavenly Father gives is an expression of His grace. “We confess that eternal life is a reward; it is something due because of the promise, not because of our merits” (Ap V 241). Hus: “When [a disciple] has patiently continued to endure[,] it helps to purify him as tools [purify] iron, and fire gold, and it helps to increase his reward of beatitude” (The Church, p 270). prophets. OT prophets were persecuted (cf 2Ch 24:21; Jer 20:2).»

10:42 little ones. Jesus was likely gesturing to young children, but may have been referring also to those who believe in Jesus with a simple, childlike faith (cf 18:1–14). cup of cold water … reward. Someone who performs even a small act of love will be rewarded.

11:1 After Jesus finished giving mission instructions to His disciples (ch 10), He resumed His travels in the cities and villages of Galilee (9:35).

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qj56_a1-a90

Gospel According to Matthew, 10:34–42 (ESV):

Not Peace, but a Sword

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

Rewards

“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”

Transcript (with references)

Hello. Today, let’s talk about peace in the storm. The text before us is Matthew 10:34–[42] (Matthew 10:34–42).

Introduction: The Peace of the Lord

What is your idea of perfect peace? Perhaps it’s a childhood memory of lying in a meadow watching the clouds go by, or sitting on a seashore entranced by the waves, or gazing at the night sky looking at the stars. Peace for us means quiet without trouble or care. As adults, we long for such a moment of peace—if only we could find one. Our pressures and worries are like a great storm that rarely ever subsides.

So, what do you think Jesus meant when He so often spoke peace to His disciples? “Peace be with you” (John 20:19), or, “Peace I leave you; My peace I give unto you. Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” (John 14:27). What is this peace of the Lord?

Recently I read about an art contest. The artists were to see who could make the most peaceful painting. There were all kinds of entries, as you might imagine, but one stole the show. It was of an angry sky filled with lightning and storm. It showed a ferocious cliff with water roaring over the edge. At the side of the ragged cliff was a scrawny tree hanging on for dear life, and in the branch of the tree was a bird’s nest. The mother bird covered her young. Her eyes were closed, and she was at peace.

Is that something of what Jesus is talking about when He speaks peace to His disciples? Is this the peace that Jesus speaks to you? Jesus says, “Peace be with you.” It is not the absence of trouble and storm that Jesus offers in this life. But in the midst of trouble and storm, Jesus gives His disciples His faithful, secure, and perfect peace.

Point One: Not Peace, but a Sword

Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He gives a peace that the world cannot give and the world cannot take away (John 14:27). But this Prince of Peace will become a stumbling block for others. Your faith in Him, and even the love that He demonstrates through you, may become an offense to those who do not believe.

Faith in Jesus can break families apart. A family member may complain, “Saturday is a day for play. Why do you serve at that food pantry? Why are you involved in child literacy? Why are you going to the women’s shelter?” A parent may even grumble, “Sunday is our family day. Why do you go to that church every Sunday morning?”

The Lord explains that your faith in Him, and even loving others in His name, may become a source of division in your relationships. Even members of your own family may take offense.

Jesus declares in Matthew 10:34–35, “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law” (Matthew 10:34–35).

You may be rejected by more than your own family. In some countries, vast portions of the population are being persecuted. Christian practices are unwanted, offensive, and even illegal. Christian words and practices may be viewed as biased or bigoted or abusive. Some people may be offended by public prayer or Bible reading or Christian speech. They may retaliate.

How can you remain faithful to the lordship of Jesus Christ in your life and at the same time exhibit the love of God and the mercy of God for all those around you, even those who are offended by your Christian faith and practice? That is a challenge.

Point Two: Take Up Your Cross

In Matthew 10:38, Jesus tells His disciples that “he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me” (Matthew 10:38). The verb here in Greek is lambanō. It means either “to take” or “to receive.” One could rightly translate this verse, “He or she who does not receive his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.”

The expectation is that each and every Christian will in some way receive a cross. Each Christian will receive a form of suffering that is part of his or her journey of faith and discipleship. Humiliation, mistreatment, service, suffering, sacrifice—all are part of what to expect when you follow Jesus, I should add. And returning love and kindness to those who oppose and persecute you also is part of receiving your cross and following Jesus (Matthew 5:44).

The message that we might like to hear is of a Christianity without suffering. This false theology might suggest, “Well, if you’re faithful, you’ll never lack money, or you’ll never be sick, or you’ll never have sorrow.” This false theology might say, “If you have enough faith, you’ll have your best life now, your most prosperous life here, your most enjoyable and fun life every day.”

But beloved, that is not what our Lord Jesus teaches in the Holy Bible. That is a false theology built upon a false understanding of God’s peace. In contrast to that falsehood, Jesus offers a Christianity of the cross. Jesus had riches but no such prosperity. Jesus had food that the disciples could not see (John 4:32). And Jesus had peace, but His peace was in the midst of service, suffering, and sacrifice.

Jesus gave His disciples His peace. And He taught them how to rejoice in their suffering, how to trust God in their sacrifice. All of that is part of what Jesus meant when He called His followers to receive their cross and follow Him.

Point Three: A Righteous Man’s Reward

Finally, Jesus said something in Matthew 10:40–42 that takes a bit more explanation. He said, “He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever in the name of a disciple gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water to drink. Truly I say to you, he shall not lose his reward” (Matthew 10:40–41). So what is the Lord Jesus teaching us here?

First, if you receive Jesus, you receive the Father. Clear enough? Jesus and the Father are one (John 10:30). If you receive Christ, you get the Father too.

Second, if you receive a prophet, that is, one who foretells or forth-tells the true Word of God. If you receive his word, you receive what the prophet himself received: justification by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9; Augsburg Confession, Article IV). And if you receive a righteous man, that means a sinner who has become righteous by grace through faith, you will receive the reward that he received. He became a child of God through faith, with the Spirit upon him and the presence of Jesus within him.

Third, if you have done the least act of service or suffering in the name of Jesus or one who has faith in Jesus, Christ is alive in you. This is God’s greatest reward.

Conclusion: Peace

Over and over again, in each and every Divine Service, the peace of Jesus is spoken to you. “In peace, let us pray to the Lord.” “The peace of the Lord be with you always.” “Grace be unto you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 1:7). “The peace of God that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).

The peace that Jesus gives to you is not a false promise, but the power of His peace. Even when you serve or suffer or sacrifice, make no mistake: it is going to cost you to receive your cross and follow Him. It is going to cost you to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44).

Where do you get such peace in the day of trouble? You don’t have to try to find that peace or require yourself to manufacture that peace. The very peace of Jesus already is yours. Like the waters of your Baptism, His peace is being poured out over you. Like the springs of living water, His peace is rising up from within you (John 7:38).

Be like a sponge. Soak it up. Jesus is giving you Himself. Jesus is giving you His peace.

So be attentive, attentive, beloved. When the storms of life would steal your peace, you can be like the bird in the nest in the midst of the storm. You have His peace. Jesus, your Savior, is beside you. Jesus overshadows you. Jesus lives within you. So even now, this moment and every moment, Jesus gives you His peace.

The peace of God that passes all understanding keep your heart and mind through Jesus Christ our Lord (Philippians 4:7). Amen.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 10:21–33 (ESV):

Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.

Have No Fear

“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

10:16–25 Jesus warns His disciples to expect persecution as they carry out their mission of being His witnesses. This opposition to the Gospel is evidence of sin’s grip on the human heart. When we experience abuse because of our loyalty to Jesus, we have His assurance that the Holy Spirit will help us to speak the right words. He will use our Gospel testimony to soften the hard hearts of unbelievers. • Holy Spirit, help me to stand firm to the end and faithfully witness to Christ in word and deed. Amen.

10:26–33 Enemies of the Gospel can persecute believers only within limits set by our heavenly Father. Because He is in charge of our lives, we need not be afraid of those who oppose us because we confess Christ. At the last judgment, our Lord will recognize faithful service and acknowledge us as His followers. We are confident of His love not because of what we have done but because He died and rose to redeem us from sin, death, and the power of the devil. • Heavenly Father, through Word and Sacrament, assure me of Your loving care and drive fear from my heart. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

10:21–22 Jesus knew that His disciples might be tempted to give up their mission and their faith when even family members turned against them because of their loyalty to Him (see note, Mk 13:12: «Anti-Christian sentiment would divide families, even to the point of close relatives handing over loved ones for execution.»). Jesus encouraged the disciples to stand firm, always keeping in mind the highest goal, salvation.

10:23 If persecution became too severe in one town, Jesus told His disciples to move to the next one. At times, Jesus Himself withdrew to escape danger (4:12). Son of Man comes. Likely refers to Jesus’ coming in judgment on Jerusalem, which was captured and destroyed by the Romans in AD 70 (24:2).

10:24 Teachers and disciples, servants and masters suffer the same.

10:25 Beelzebul. See note, 2Ki 1:2: «Baal-zebub. Originally Baal-zebul (NT Beelzebul), “Baal is prince”; here, the writer expresses disdain for this Canaanite idol by calling it Baal-zebub, “Lord of a fly.”» Jesus, the true Master of God’s house, was labeled demonic. Jesus’ disciples will be equally maligned.

10:26 no fear. Since it was Jesus who sent His disciples into the world, they could depend on His protection. revealed … known. As the disciples carry out their mission, they need to be convinced that ultimately the truth of the Gospel will emerge.

10:27 Jesus often told His disciples to keep quiet about who He was (12:16; 16:20; 17:9). See “Secrecy,” p 1653: «Secrecy. Throughout the Gospel of Mark, Jesus discourages people and unclean spirits from speaking about Him and His kingdom (e.g., Mk 1:23–25; 1:44; 3:11–12; 7:36–37; 8:26, 30; 9:9–10). Critical scholars read this feature as a device early Christians added to the story of Jesus’ life. They argue that Jesus never really called Himself the Son of God or Christ but that these beliefs about Him were added later to let people in on the secret. Such an interpretation conflicts with Mark’s overall goal and account. It is more likely that Jesus exercises His authority to guide the spread of His popularity, which had brought Him into conflict with political and religious authorities. E.g., outside the jurisdiction of Jesus’ main opponents, He actually encourages a man to proclaim His miracles (Mk 5:19–20).» However, the time was coming when He wanted them to proclaim the Gospel openly and boldly. housetops. See note, Jsh 2:6: «roof. Flat roofs of ancient houses made them practical as work spaces, spare rooms, storage areas, or as drying floors for crops (Jgs 16:27; 1Sm 9:25). stalks of flax. Used to make linen clothing, sails, rope, and lamp wicks. Author does not explain how Rahab hid the men with the flax.»

10:28 those. Earthly persecutors. Him. God. What mortals can do to a believer is nothing compared to what God can do. He alone is capable of punishing a person, body and soul, in hell. Not fear of humans but fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Pr 9:10).

10:29 sparrows sold for a penny? The very poor purchased sparrows for food, paying c 1/16 of a day’s wage. This illustrates how little meat was eaten by the common people. apart from your Father. No sparrow, seemingly so worthless, will fall from its nest or experience harm in flight without God’s knowledge and will. “He foresees and foreknows everything that is or will be” (FC SD XI 4).

10:30 What no person would want to do, our Father has done: counted each hair on our heads. He knows us down to the minutest detail.

10:31 Fear not. For the third time, Jesus tells His disciples not to be afraid (vv 26, 28). more value. The disciples had vastly greater value than a small bird. They had nothing to fear, because God blesses and rules over all creation.

10:32 Jesus promised His disciples that if they fearlessly confessed Him on earth, He would stand up for them before His heavenly Father at the last judgment and accept them into eternal life.

10:33 Those who, from fear or doubt, deny Jesus will be denied by Jesus on Judgment Day. To deny Jesus is to reject the One who brings us to the Father (Jn 14:6; Eph 2:18).

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3OWTg0qi58

Gospel According to Matthew, 10:21–33 (ESV):

Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.

Have No Fear

“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.

Outline

Introduction: A martyr

Point one: Christ came to do battle

Point two: You are in a battle

Point three: Do not fear

Conclusion

Transcript

Hello. Today, let’s talk about Christ who came to do battle. The text before us is the 10th chapter of the Gospel of St. Matthew, verses 21–33.

Introduction: A Martyr

His name was Ignatius, known as Ignatius Theophoros: Ignatius the God-bearing. He was bishop of Antioch, friend of Polycarp, and disciple of John, the beloved apostle.

Just after the turn of the first century, perhaps 106 or 107 AD, the emperor Trajan ordered persecution of all Christians who would not sacrifice to idols. Ignatius was arrested for his Christian faith. He was taken to Rome for execution. He was sentenced to be eaten by lions.

Ignatius declared his eagerness for martyrdom, knowing that his death was not a loss, but a passage to eternal life. Ignatius was willing to be sacrificed for Christ and the Church.

Point One: Christ Came to Do Battle

Before the foundation of the world, God knew all things, and God planned for this event: the sacrifice of the Savior, the death of Jesus Christ.

From the fall of Adam, the sacrifice of Christ was already foretold in Genesis 3. God said to Satan, “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed. He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel.”

The “he” about whom God is speaking is Jesus. Jesus shall bruise the devil’s head, and Satan shall bruise our Lord on the heel.

Who is he who would defeat Satan? Through the prophet Isaiah, God said that a child would be born. His name would be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah prophesied some 700 years before the birth of Jesus that the Messiah would be pierced through for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities. The chastening for our well-being fell upon him, and by his scourging we are healed. All of us, like sheep, have gone astray. Each of us has turned to his own way. But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on him.

And so, in the fullness of time, that holy child was born. The angel of the Lord told Joseph not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. The child conceived in her by the Holy Spirit would be a son. He was to be named Jesus, a name meaning that he would save his people from their sins.

A Savior was coming, one who would defeat our enemies. He would demolish the bondage of sin, defeat the power of the devil, and destroy the stronghold of death.

Before the foundation of the world, God knew all things, and God planned for this event: the sacrifice of the Savior, the death of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Son of God, the Savior, the mighty warrior, would come to do battle to set us free.

Point Two: You Are in a Battle

In today’s Gospel text, Jesus explains something of the warfare that his disciples must face. Jesus said, “If they have called the head of the house Beelzebul, how much more the members of the household?”

Jesus is the head of the household. We are members of his family. We have been joined to him and made members of the household of God by virtue of our holy baptism into the death and resurrection of Jesus, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, who has given us grace and faith.

If they call Jesus unrighteous names, if they slander, mistreat, persecute, and ultimately execute him, we who are his family should not be surprised if we share in similar treatment. What we believe, what we speak, how we behave will threaten them, make them angry, divide friendships, and even break apart families.

As a result of your faith in Jesus Christ, you will be hated—from the Greek word miseo, verse 22 of this chapter: to pursue with hatred, to detest—and you will be persecuted—from the Greek word dioko, verse 23 of this chapter: to mistreat, to molest, to torment.

Your adversaries are threefold. The first enemy you may not even recognize. Remember, immediately after Jesus began his ministry through the baptism of John, Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. You too should expect to be tempted and tested by Satan in your wilderness. And by wilderness, I mean when your body hurts, and when your emotions are fraught, or when your situation is threatening, then expect that you will be tormented spiritually.

Please hear this: if our Lord Jesus Christ could be tempted and tormented by the devil, do you not think that you will be tempted and tormented by the devil too? Different demons have different specializations: hatred, unforgiveness, anger, violence, fear, anxiety, depression, isolation, obsession, self-condemnation, and even self-mutilation.

The battle with evil is not only with the supernatural world, but in this earthly existence too. This is a fallen world, and you’re surrounded by the sin of humanity. Why do you think that Jesus so often greets his disciples with a declaration, “Peace”? It’s because in this world, we do not have peace. The world is a place of struggle and battle. It fights against your peace, your joy, your happiness.

The third battleground is your own flesh. Though you are inhabited and inspired by Christ and the Holy Spirit, you still struggle with the old Adam or the old Eve. The sinful flesh still clings to your neck and assaults you with envy and evil thoughts, words, and deeds.

So thank God that Christ, who is the mighty warrior, Christ, who is the Savior, not only fights for you, but fights from within you, guiding and guarding, teaching and training you in your battles with the devil, and with the world, and with your own sinful flesh.

Point Three: Do Not Fear

Three times in this brief passage, Jesus encourages his disciples to fear not.

Do not fear, says Jesus, those who plot in secret, speak in secret, attack in secret. There is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nothing hidden that will not be made known. And he, the mighty warrior, knows all, hears all, sees all. He is your sure defense.

And do not fear even those who kill the body. They cannot take your soul, cannot take your faith, cannot take your great reward of eternal joy.

Indeed, do not fear. If not even a bird falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge and care, how much more does your loving heavenly Father care for you? And when you stumble or fall, it is he who protects you and he who will provide for you forever.

Keep your eyes on Christ and his cross. Your great reward is not because of your faithfulness, or your courage, or your great goodness. Your great reward is in Christ alone. He is the one who is the mighty warrior. He leads you through the battle to the great and heavenly victory.

Eric Linklater tells of his experience as a soldier of the Scottish Black Watch Battalion in World War I. They had emerged from battle with one officer, thirty men, and a piper left out of a full battalion, typically one to three thousand men.

Linklater writes, “The next day, marching peacefully in the morning light of France along a pleasant road, we encountered the tattered fragments of a battalion of British infantry, Coldstream Foot Guards, and our piper, putting breath in his bag and playing so that he filled the air like the massed bands of the Highland Division, saluted the tall Foot Guards, who had a drummer and some instruments of brass that made also a gallant music.

“Stiffly we passed each other, swollen of chest, heads tautly turned to the right, our kilts swinging to the answer of the swagger of the guards, and the red hackle feather in our bonnets like the monstrance of a bruised but resilient faith.

“We were bearded and stained with mud. The guards, the fifty men that were left of a battalion, were button-bright and clean-shaven. We were a tattered, derelict crew from the coal mines of Fife and the back streets of Dundee. But we trod, quick-stepping to the brawling tune of ‘Highland Laddie.’ And suddenly I was crying with a fool’s delight and the sheer gladness of being in such company.”

One day, beloved of Jesus Christ, when your tribulation on this earth is over, you too will march and stand with all of those who have come out of the tribulation, with a multitude which no one can count, clothed in white robes and with palm branches in your hands.

You will cry out, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

And angels standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures will fall down on their faces before the throne and worship God, saying, “Amen. Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever. Amen.”

Who are these gathered here? And from where have they come?

The elder will declare, “These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”

The day is soon coming when all of the tribulations of all of the faithful, of all of the ages, will be summed up and placed behind us. For Christ came to do battle, and battle he did. Christ has defeated sin and death and the devil. And even though you must still march the road and skirmish with your enemies, the war is won, and your place in the heavenly courts is already prepared. Amen.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:35–10:8 (ESV):

The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few

And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

The Twelve Apostles

And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles

These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

9:35–38 As Jesus travels around Galilee, the need for partners to preach the Gospel becomes more and more obvious. He urges His disciples to pray for laborers, and He sends out 12 of them as His personal ambassadors (ch 10). Jesus’ desire to save Jewish people and to “make disciples of all nations” (28:19) has not changed. All Christians are called to be witnesses of the surpassing compassion Jesus shows them by the forgiveness, life, and salvation He offers. • Good Shepherd, make me faithful, and bless my every effort to enlarge Your flock. Amen.

10:1–4 Jesus selects representatives to extend His gracious kingdom. They are named individually and given divine authority, demonstrating Jesus’ personal care for each disciple. The compassionate authority of forgiveness is given to each of Christ’s followers. We are sent with the message of God’s love to a world of sinners. Through the waters of Baptism, God called us by name and made us His dear children. • Thank You, Jesus, for making me one of Your followers. Help me to carry out Your mission as Your representative. Amen.

10:5–15 Jesus sends out 12 apostles and warns them that not everyone will receive them hospitably or listen to their message. We who witness to Christ have the same experience. The Gospel is foolishness to many, “but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, [it is] Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” (1Co 1:24). • Lord Jesus, strengthen my determination to serve as Your ambassador of peace, even when I encounter opposition. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

9:35 This second summary leads into the calling of the 12 apostles (10:1–4) and the missionary discourse (10:5–42). healing every disease … affliction. See note, 4:23–24: «healing every disease … affliction. Mt and Lk emphasize that early in His ministry, Jesus healed everyone who came to Him (8:16; 9:35; 12:15; Lk 4:40; 6:19). (Mk writes “many” in 3:10.) Thus the Gospels set out the general character of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. They later note exceptions to those general trends: growing skepticism (Mt 12:22–32; Lk 11:14–23) and few miracles in Nazareth (Mt 13:54; Mk 6:5). Healings are emphasized less and less as Jesus journeys toward the cross. The miracles adorned Jesus’ ministry to demonstrate that He is God’s servant (Jn 3:2; Ac 2:22). They are not a witness that God will work wonders for all people, everywhere, at all times, as St Paul learned in 2Co 12:7–10.»

9:36 compassion. Lit, “moved with pity”; based on a term referring to the belly, regarded as the seat of the emotions. harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. The people had spiritual leaders like the Pharisees, who charged Jesus with being a pawn of Satan (v 34).

9:37–38 disciples. Not just the Twelve (10:1), but a larger group. harvest. Various harvests would occur throughout the year. Jesus used this agricultural metaphor to picture the many people who needed to hear the Gospel. pray earnestly … send out laborers. The plentiful harvest continues to require our prayers for workers today. It also calls us to bear witness ourselves.

10:1 twelve disciples. See notes, 5:1: «Seeing the crowds. Jesus separated Himself from the “great crowds” (4:25), though some did hear His teaching (7:28). mountain. Location unknown. Mountains were common sites for significant events (cf 17:1). Jesus’ teaching in chs 5–7 has long been known as the Sermon on the Mount. It is the first of five major sermons, or discourses, in Mt (cf ch 10; 13:1–52; ch 18; chs 24–25). Aug: “The sermon before us is perfect in all the precepts by which the Christian life is moulded” (NPNF 1 6:3). sat down. Rabbis typically sat to teach. disciples. Gk mathetes; “learner,” “apprentice.” Common in Gospels and Ac, but never used in Epistles. Often means the 12 called “apostles” (10:1–2), but can also mean a larger group of adherents. The feminine form appears once. Here, the term includes the four fishermen (cf 4:18–22) plus others from the crowds who responded to Jesus’ call to repent.»; Lk 22:30: «My table. At the kingdom’s banquet, the apostles sit at privileged places with the King of heaven. thrones. Jesus notes the honors given to the loyal apostles, who will become leaders in the Church (Ac 6; 15). The 12 apostles correspond to the 12 tribes of Israel.»; see also p 217: «twelve. Associated with the sons of Jacob (Gn 35:22b–26), from whom descended the tribes of Israel (Ex 28:21; Nu 1:1–16). Twelve thus represents the people of God. This later applied to the NT people of God, the Church, led by the twelve apostles (Mt 19:28).» Jesus granted His disciples the kind of power that He had abundantly demonstrated (7:29; 9:6, 8; Mk 1:21–28). The spiritual authority Jesus grants them anticipates their role and calling as leaders in the Early Church. See notes, Jn 20:22: «breathed on. Gk term used only here in NT. Jesus’ words, formed by breaths of air, delivered the Spirit to the disciples (Gk pneuma translates as “spirit” or “wind” [breath]). Aug: “That bodily breathing, proceeding from the body with the feeling of bodily touching, was not the substance of the Holy Spirit, but a declaration by a fitting sign, that the Holy Spirit proceeds not only from the Father, but also from the Son” (NPNF 1 3:84). Receive the Holy Spirit. By giving the Holy Spirit, Jesus was equipping the disciples for the ongoing work assigned to them, including esp the exercise of the Office of the Keys.», Jn 20:23: «“These words show that the Keys are given to all the apostles alike and that all the apostles are sent forth alike. In addition, it must be recognized that the Keys belong not to the person of one particular man, but to the Church. Many most clear and firm arguments show this. For Christ, speaking about the Keys, adds, for example, ‘If two of you agree on earth’ (Matthew 18:19). Therefore, He grants the Keys first and directly to the Church. This is why it is first the Church that has the right of calling” (Tr 23–24).»; Ac 1:25: «this ministry. In the NT, almost always specific, a concrete form of service laid on a particular person. apostleship. Gk apostole; the ambassadorial office Jesus instituted in Lk 6:13.»; Ac 6:3: «good repute. See the qualifications for deacons in 1Tm 3:1–13. full of the Spirit and of wisdom. Both spiritual and practical aptitudes. we will appoint. The people chose the deacons; the apostles instituted their office.»; Ac 15:2: «appointed. The Church in Antioch “sets it in order” for an official delegation to travel to Jerusalem to resolve this dispute. go up. Jerusalem is c ½ mi above sea level, a higher elevation than Antioch. the apostles and the elders. Here, the 12 apostles and other church leaders.»

10:2–4 Apostles are listed in pairs; Jesus sent them out “two by two” (Mk 6:7).

10:2 apostles. See p 1901: «apostle. Gk apostolos; comparable to Hbr shaliach. Both from verbs meaning “to send.” The one sent goes with the full authority of the sender. Paul’s words are God’s words, as are the words of Moses, Elijah, Elisha, and Ezekiel, each of whom was known as a shaliach of God. Paul called himself an apostle in all of his Epistles except Php, 2Th, and Phm. Paul thus firmly established his authority as one appointed directly by the risen Lord, whom he had seen (1Co 4:1; 9:2; 11:23; 15:8). Unlike any others to whom this title is applied (by Paul himself or others), Paul and the Twelve were called and sent directly by Jesus.» Only time Mt uses this term. Simon … Andrew. Former fishermen and brothers. Most prominent among the Twelve. Peter. See note, Mk 3:16: «Peter. Transliteration of Gk adjective petros, which is related to the word for “rock.” However, Peter was not always the stable fellow his nickname implied. He sometimes acts rashly (e.g., Mk 14:29, 66–72). After the resurrection, however, Peter became much more of a bulwark.» Andrew. Not mentioned again in Mt. James … John. Also former fishermen. Peter, James, and John formed Jesus’ inner circle (17:1; 26:37).

10:3 Philip. Greek-speaking disciple from Bethsaida (Jn 1:43–44; 12:20–21) who found Nathanael (Jn 1:45). Bartholomew. Perhaps Nathanael (Jn 1:45–51). Thomas. Prominent in Jn (Jn 11:16; 14:5; 20:26–29). Matthew. Former tax collector. James the son of Alphaeus. Referred to as “James the younger” (Mk 15:40) to distinguish him from John’s brother. Thaddaeus. Probably the person Luke called “Judas, son of James” (Lk 6:16; Ac 1:13).

10:4 Simon the Cananaean. Aram qane’an, “zealous one”; name given to Jewish nationalist groups opposed to Roman rule (see “Zealots,” p 1558: «Zealots. Jewish revolutionaries who followed Judas the Galilean in resistance against Herodian rule in AD 6 and revolted against the Romans in AD 66. The Zealots opposed paying taxes to Rome. Jesus’ disciple Simon the Zealot (Lk 6:15; Ac 1:13) may have been a part of such a group before following Jesus.»). Judas Iscariot. See note, Lk 22:3: «Iscariot. Two apostles were named Judas (Lk 6:16). The betrayer is identified by “Iscariot,” or “man from Kerioth-hezron,” his hometown, making him the only apostle from Judea. The others came from Galilee.»

10:5 sent out, instructing. Jesus’ second discourse (vv 5–42) concerns the upcoming mission of His disciples. This training would prepare them to serve the Church in the future. Go nowhere among the Gentiles. The disciples were to concentrate their immediate efforts on Jewish people living in Galilee. Only later would Jesus give them the command to go to all nations (v 18; 28:19). Samaritans. See p 1557: «Samaritans. A people whose Jewish heritage had been adulterated through intermarriage and whose observance of Judaism was regarded as corrupted. Samaritans descended from Israelites left behind after Samaria’s destruction (722 BC) and included foreigners imported by Assyrian kings (2Ki 17:24–28, 33–34). They inhabited the area between Judea and Galilee. They accepted only the Five Books of Moses as authoritative, worshiped on Mount Gerizim, and rejected Jerusalem as the proper place of worship. Most Jews regarded Samaritans as outside the bounds of the covenant people and avoided them (Lk 9:52–53). Long-standing and deep-seated hostility existed between Jews and Samaritans.»

10:6 lost. Jesus had observed the spiritual misery of the house of Israel during His own tour through Galilee. He recognized how necessary it was for laborers to proclaim “the gospel of the kingdom” (9:35–38). sheep. Jesus would train the apostles as shepherds, from which the office/title of “pastor” would come (cf Jn 21:15–16; Eph 4:11; 1Pt 2:25; 5:1).

10:7 The disciples’ message would be identical to that of Jesus and John the Baptist (Mk 1:14–15).

10:8 Heal the sick … cast out demons. Cf v 1. Jesus lists four ways the disciples are to use their authority. These miracles were signs of the nearness of God’s kingdom. cleanse. See “Clean and Unclean,” p 1653: «Clean and Unclean. Mark explains and emphasizes cleanliness, an important aspect of OT Law (cf Gn 7:2–3; 9:3–4; Lv 11–15) and rabbinic tradition (Mk 7:1–8). Jesus “made clean” a leper (Mk 1:40–44). A demon is an “unclean spirit” (e.g., Mk 1:23). A herd of swine—unclean animals—are wiped out (Mk 5:13). These examples likely helped Mark’s Gentile readers better understand the Jewish members of their early Christian congregations. But Mark also emphasized Jesus’ teaching about the ultimate source of uncleanness: the sinful human heart (Mk 7:20–23).» received … give without pay. The healing power was not for personal financial gain.

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41qJxERPZy0

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:35–10:8 (ESV):

The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few

And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

The Twelve Apostles

And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Apostles

These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.

Outline

Introduction: Only ten percent

Point one: The harvest is plentiful

Point two: But the laborers are few

Point three: Jesus sends out laborers

References

Book of Isaiah, 55:8–9 (ESV):

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Book of Psalms, 119:160 (ESV):

The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.

First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians, 12:27 (ESV):

Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

Gospel According to John, 1:12–13 (ESV):

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

First Letter of Peter, 2:4–5 (ESV):

As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

First Letter of Peter, 2:9 (ESV):

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Gospel According to Luke, 10:1–9 (ESV):

Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-Two

After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you. Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’

Gospel According to Matthew, 28:18–20 (ESV):

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Letter of Paul to the Philippians, 2:12–13 (ESV):

Lights in the World

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:9–13 (ESV):

Jesus Calls Matthew

As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.

And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

9:9–13 That Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners may not shock Bible readers today. We think of Him as the friend of sinners. But it was shocking to many first-century Jews that Jesus would practice table fellowship with such people (cf 11:19). Jesus is unlike any other Jewish rabbi. This festive banquet is His opportunity to call to faith people who are conscious of their unrighteousness. Jesus sits with them, not because they are worthy, but because He is merciful. He wants sinners included in His kingdom. • Dear Jesus, thank You for inviting me, a sinner, to Your marriage supper. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

9:9 Matthew. Also called Levi. One of the 12 apostles. tax booth. Possibly on the border between the territories of Philip and Herod Antipas, where commercial tolls were levied. Matthew’s administrative occupation likely helped prepare him for writing his Gospel. followed Him. In contrast to those who only volunteered to follow Jesus (8:19–22), Matthew responded immediately to Jesus’ call (cf 4:18–22).

9:10 reclined at table. See note, 8:11: «recline. It was customary to eat while lying on one’s left side, esp in formal settings (cf Jn 13:23).» the house. Matthew’s (cf Lk 5:29). tax collectors. See note, 5:46: «tax collectors. Romans (and local rulers such as Herod Antipas) awarded the right to collect taxes to the highest bidder, allowing local tax gatherers to levy a surcharge on the taxes they collected. Tax collectors typically abused the practice and were generally considered dishonest, traitorous, and “sinners.” Yet, even they returned love for love.» sinners. Disreputable people.

9:11 Pharisees. See note, Mk 2:18: «Pharisees. Originally, the name of this party meant “the separate ones.” What separated the Pharisees from other Jews was their rigorous interpretations and strict observance of the Jewish Law.» The intent behind their question was to find fault with Jesus, something they did increasingly (cf v 34; 12:2). eat. See note, Mk 2:16: «eating. Pious Jews, esp Pharisees, would not associate with Gentiles, tax collectors, or openly wicked Jews, let alone eat with them. Sharing a table with sinners was regarded as a defiling act (Lk 15:1–2; Ac 11:3).»

9:12 physician. Jesus is the sinners’ “doctor.” See note, Dt 32:39: «I kill … I wound. God’s “alien” work. The Lord kills and wounds so that sinners blinded by pride might see the reality that they are wounded and dead in their sin and trust the Lord, who alone heals and makes alive. “When they are idle, negligent, and rebellious in this matter because of the flesh, He rebukes them through the Law. So the Spirit carries out both offices together: He slays and makes alive [Deuteronomy 32:39]. He leads into hell and brings up again. For His office is not only to comfort, but also to rebuke” (FC SD VI 12). Luth: “God wants us to regard the evils that we experience as coming to us with His permission.… God permits evil to come to us; for it is His will that, when we have been chastened, we cast ourselves on His mercy” (AE 13:135). none that can deliver. Aph: “My beloved, have no doubt as to the Resurrection of the dead.… Believe that in the day of Resurrection, your body shall arise in its entirety, and you shall receive from our Lord the reward of your faith, and in all that you have believed, you shall rejoice and be made glad.… When Death heard all these things, amazement seized him, and he sat him down in mourning” (NPNF 2 13:383, 402–3).»

9:13 Jesus told the Pharisees, who were proud of their knowledge of Scripture, to go back to school. They failed to see that mercy was the point of God’s work. mercy, and not sacrifice. Hosea condemned Israel for supposing that God desired obedience to ritual laws (sacrifice) more than the practice of mercy. The Pharisees were equally guilty of this sin. See note, 1Sm 15:22–23: «to obey is better than sacrifice. Samuel is not saying that sacrifice is unimportant, but that it should be accompanied by the obedience that flows from saving faith. Luth: “In Scripture faith is called obedience” (AE 30:30). Iren: “The prophets indicate in the fullest manner that God stood in no need of their slavish obedience, but that it was upon their own account that He enjoyed certain observances in the law.… When He perceived them neglecting righteousness, and abstaining from the love of God, and imagining that God was to be propitiated by sacrifices and the other typical observances, Samuel did even thus speak to them” (ANF 1:482).» righteous, but sinners. Those proud of their own righteousness will not respond positively when Jesus calls sinners. See p 843: «righteous. Hbr tsadaq, “proved right” or “in good order.” Used to describe a person in a right relationship with God, trusting God’s promised salvation and living by the covenant promise. The Psalms describe how the wicked plot against the righteous, but the Lord watches over the righteous and delivers them. God is righteous because He faithfully and justly keeps His Word. ; righteousness. Hbr tsedaqah, “blamelessness, honesty, justice.” An attribute of God praised in the Psalms. The expression “in Your righteousness deliver me” (Ps 71:2; cf 5:8; 31:1; 89:16; 119:40; 143:11) describes the psalmist asking God to keep His promise of salvation. He is the source of righteousness (Ps 4:1), which is the basis for the biblical teaching of righteousness or justification through faith (cf Gn 15:6; Rm 3:21–5:11).»

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fwfxt1UeImo

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:9–13 (ESV):

Jesus Calls Matthew

As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.

And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Outline

Introduction: Called by God

Point one: A calling

Point two: Your vocation

Point three: The vocation of the holy ministry

Conclusion

References

14th chapter of the Book of Psalms (ESV):

The Fool Says, There Is No God

To the choirmaster. Of David. The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good. The LORD looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. Have they no knowledge, all the evildoers who eat up my people as they eat bread and do not call upon the LORD? There they are in great terror, for God is with the generation of the righteous. You would shame the plans of the poor, but the LORD is his refuge. Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When the LORD restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad.

Letter of Paul to the Colossians, 2:13–14 (ESV):

And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.

Letter of Paul to the Ephesians, 2:1–9 (ESV):

By Grace Through Faith

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:13 (ESV, Interlinear Bible):

Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call (kalesai) the righteous, but sinners.”

Gospel According to Matthew, 9:13 (ESV, Vulgate):

Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call (vocare) the righteous, but sinners.”

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Matthew, 28:16–20 (ESV):

The Great Commission

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

28:16–20 Christ commissions His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations through Baptism and teaching. Christ promises to be with us, and He is the one who makes disciples through our baptizing and teaching. Today, remember your Baptism and confirmation in the faith, which are precious blessings for the Lord’s disciples. His love and care are new for you every morning. • Send us, Lord, to make disciples in Your name in accordance with our callings in life. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

28:16 eleven disciples. The Twelve minus Judas. mountain. Location unknown. Traditionally thought to be the Mount of Transfiguration.

28:17 worshiped. Cf 2:2; 28:9. some doubted. Though not in rank unbelief, they had a hard time absorbing the events that had transpired. Cf Lk 24:38.

28:18–20 Though all God’s people are to bear witness to the Lord (cf Ps 145; Is 43:10), the focus here is on the apostles and their calling as leading witnesses and representatives of Jesus. (Compare to the authorization in Mt 10:1–7.)

28:18 All authority. Christ’s human nature, which had refrained from exercising the divine authority belonging to the person of Christ, now is fully exalted and given free use of divine authority (cf v 19). “He can also powerfully effect and do everything that He says and promises” (FC SD VII 43). “The Church’s authority and the State’s authority must not be confused. The Church’s authority has its own commission to teach the Gospel and to administer the Sacraments [Matthew 28:19–20]. Let it not break into the office of another. Let it not transfer the kingdoms of this world to itself. Let it not abolish the laws of civil rulers. Let it not abolish lawful obedience” (AC XXVIII 12–13).

28:19 make disciples. See note, 5:1: «disciples. Gk mathetes; “learner,” “apprentice.” Common in Gospels and Ac, but never used in Epistles. Often means the 12 called “apostles” (10:1–2), but can also mean a larger group of adherents. The feminine form appears once (see note, Ac 9:36). Here, the term includes the four fishermen (cf 4:18–22) plus others from the crowds who responded to Jesus’ call to repent.» Jesus gives us the tools to make disciples: Baptism and His teaching. all nations. Not just the Jews, but Gentiles too (cf 10:5–6). baptizing them in the name. “Name” is singular, followed by the threefold naming of the divine persons. This illustrates the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Those baptized in the name of the Father have God as their Father; baptized in the name of the Son, they receive all the benefits of the Son’s redeeming act; baptized in the name of the Spirit, they receive the life-giving, life-sustaining power and presence of the Spirit. Christian Baptism is founded on this institution. See note, Nu 6:22–27: «After introducing new regulations for the camp (Nu chs 1–6), the Lord adds a blessing, showing His gracious favor toward the people. The threefold repetition of the divine name (cf Ps 24:8–10; 113:1; 136:1–3) anticipates the threefold name Jesus uses in Mt 28:19, the basis for the doctrine of the Trinity. The first clause in each line of the benediction invokes God’s movement to His people; the second clause invokes His activities.» baptizing. Washing with the water of new birth. “Baptism is no human plaything, but it is instituted by God Himself” (LC IV 6). “It is necessary to baptize little children, that the promise of salvation may be applied to them, according to Christ’s command to baptize all nations (Matthew 28:19). Just as in this passage salvation is offered to all, so Baptism is offered to all, to men, women, children, infants. It clearly follows, therefore, that infants are to be baptized, because salvation is offered with Baptism” (Ap IX 52).

28:20 teaching. Disciples are made not only through Baptism, but through the ongoing catechetical work of the Church. observe all. Christians are called to do more than “obey”; they are called to treasure God’s Word in their hearts. commanded. Not only Christ’s moral injunctions (the Law) but also His invitation to trust in Him (the Gospel). I am with you always. Not only in Spirit but also according to His human nature. See “be with,” p 5: «be with. Found in numerous Hbr expressions of encouragement for God’s people, which often also threaten defeat or punishment for enemies of God’s people. In biblical theology, God fills the whole universe with His presence (Jer 23:23) and providential goodness (Mt 5:45; Ac 17:24–28; Rm 1:20). However, God is specially present with His saving power and grace where He promises to be present, in His Word (Ex 3:12; cf Jsh 1:5). These promises anticipate the greater day of Immanuel, which means “God with us” (Is 7:14; Mt 1:23; cf Mt 28:20). Jesus is present according to His grace wherever His Gospel and Sacraments are present.» “He is present especially in His Church and congregation on earth as Mediator, Head, King, and High Priest. This presence is not a part, or only one half of Him. Christ’s entire person is present, to which both natures belong, the divine and the human—not only according to His divinity, but also according to, and with, His received human nature” (FC SD VIII 78). end of the age. When He returns visibly.

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRzkG_ZgC-Q

Gospel According to Matthew, 28:16–20 (ESV):

The Great Commission

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Outline

Point one: Message for the whole church

Point two: Make disciples

Point three: I am with you

Conclusion

References

Gospel According to Matthew, 28:5–7 (ESV):

But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”

First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians, 15:6 (ESV):

Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep.

First Letter of Peter, 2:9 (ESV):

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Letter of Paul to the Ephesians, 1:15–21 (ESV):

Thanksgiving and Prayer

For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

Second Letter of Paul to the Corinthians, 1:21–22 (ESV):

And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.

https://bookofconcord.cph.org/en/small-catechism/apostles-creed/:

The First Article

Creation

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.

What does this mean?

Answer: I believe that God has made me and all creatures. He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my limbs, my reason, and all my senses, and still preserves them. In addition, He has given me clothing and shoes, meat and drink, house and home, wife and children, fields, cattle, and all my goods. He provides me richly and daily with all that I need to support this body and life. He protects me from all danger and guards me and preserves me from all evil. He does all this out of pure, fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this I ought to thank Him, praise Him, serve Him, and obey Him. This is most certainly true.

The Second Article

Redemption

And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

What does this mean?

Answer: I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord. He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil. He did this not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, so that I may be His own, live under Him in His kingdom, and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true.

First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians, 6:19–20 (ESV):

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

Letter to the Hebrews, 4:12 (ESV):

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed Pentecost!

Gospel According to John, 7:37–39 (ESV):

Rivers of Living Water

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

7:37–39 On the final day of the Feast of Booths, Jesus promises that believers will receive the Holy Spirit (at Pentecost) after His death. “Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to Him” (Rm 8:9). But Christ’s death and resurrection proclaimed in the Gospel brings life to all who thirst for Him and His blessings. • O Holy Spirit, bring refreshing showers of blessing each day of my life. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://old.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

7:37 last day of the feast. Either the seventh-day or eighth-day closing festival. great day. Day on which the celebration came to a climax.

7:38 as the Scripture has said. No specific text is cited; cf 4:14; Is 58:11.

7:39 were to receive … Spirit had not been given. Full outpouring of the Holy Spirit would not take place until Pentecost, after Jesus finished His work and returned to the Father (cf 16:5–11). glorified. Hour of the crucifixion (cf 12:23–27).