SermonStudio

The Lessons

Haggai 2:1-9 (C)
Haggai encourages the exiles to re-build the temple. After defeating the Babylonians who deported the Jews, Cyrus the Great (558-528 B.C.) permitted the return of the exiles to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. In 521 Cyrus was succeeded by Darius who permitted another wave of exiles to return. Among them was a prophet, Haggai, whose ministry covered only one year, 520. When he saw how the exiles were building their houses to the neglect of re-building the temple, he aroused and exhorted them to rebuild the temple which was finished in 516. For Haggai the temple was to be the center of their national and religious life. It symbolized and guaranteed the presence of Yahweh in their midst. In our pericope we hear Haggai call upon the people to take courage for this great project of rebuilding the temple, to work, to give their silver and gold (for it already belongs to God), and to enjoy and appreciate its splendor which is greater than the previous temple. He promises God's blessing in terms of prosperity.

Exodus 34:5-9 (L)
God forgives sin but visits the iniquity of the guilty upon later generations.

Wisdom 11:22--12:1
God overlooks and transcends human foibles. After reciting both faithful and unfaithful responses to God on the part of Israel, the writer contrasts human behavior with God's steadfastness.

2 Thessalonians 1:5-12
Paul encourages his people to be faithful in a time of persecution. This is the first of three Lessons from 2 Thessalonians. Paul wrote this letter to counteract the view that the Parousia had already taken place and another contention that the Parousia was coming in a few days. Some gave up their jobs to be ready for Christ's imminent return. Paul in this letter explains that Christ is really coming but not necessarily tomorrow. Before he comes, the Antichrist will appear with many wonders and sin will have a bonanza. Then Christ will come and destroy Satan. In today's Lesson, Paul encourages his people who are being persecuted for their faith. He assures them that God in Christ will avenge the wicked and will afflict them with eternal destruction and exclusion from the presence of God. Then Paul prays for his people that they may be worthy of their calling and, by fulfill-ing their faith in good works, will be Christ's glory.

Luke 19:1-10
Jesus brings salvation to Zacchaeus, a social outcast. Only Luke tells the story of Zacchaeus, the little man who climbed a tree to see Jesus passing through Jericho. Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector who had collectors working for him. This made him a wealthy man. When Jesus invited himself to Zacchaeus' home, the people criticized him for going into the home of a sinner, a quisling and a crook who gouged the people by extorting taxes. When Jesus came to Zacchaeus with acceptance rather than judgment, Zacchaeus responded with repentance in terms of restoring fourfold what he had unjustly taken from the people. On the basis of this, Jesus announced that salvation came to Zacchaeus and his family. The whole incident was summed up by the explanation that Jesus came to seek and save lost sinners.

Prayer of the Day
"Lord, when the day of wrath comes we have no hope except in your grace. Make us so to watch for the last days that the consummation of our hope may be the marriage feast of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

Hymn of the Day
"If You But Trust in God to Guide You"

Theological Reflections

Gospel:
Luke 19:1-10

1. Chief (v. 2). Zacchaeus was no ordinary sinner. He was a "chief." He was a tax collector of a certain area and had employees to collect taxes. Probably he received his cut for all the taxes they collected. As a result he was a wealthy man. To be a publican was to be a traitor to one's country, because he was taking money for the support of the conqueror who had enslaved the nation. We can understand why the people "murmured" when they saw Jesus go as a guest in Zacchaeus' home and probably had a meal with him.

2. Sought (v. 3). Zacchaeus was curious about Jesus, for he had heard many stories about his teaching and miracles. On the day Jesus was passing through his town, Jericho, Zacchaeus "sought" to see who Jesus was. This was illustrated by his running ahead of the procession and, being a short man, climbing into a tree to get a good look at Jesus. While Zacchaeus sought Jesus, so Jesus sought Zacchaeus - "The Son of man came to seek ..." For salvation to become a fact, both parties need to seek. Zacchaeus was open to Jesus, eager to see and know him. Jesus was eager to save a soul. If we would be found of Christ, we need to be curious, open, eager, and receptive to him.

3. Salvation (v. 9). Jesus said that "salvation" came to Zacchaeus and his family. What does "salvation" mean? On the one hand, it means Christ has come into a person or family by a sheer act of grace. It is acceptance on God's part for Jesus' sake. This acceptance was expressed when Jesus called Zacchaeus "a son of Abraham," a title of honor and acceptance. To be saved is to allow Christ to enter your life. On the other hand, "salvation" means human response in terms of repentance. This was demonstrated when Zacchaeus promised to give half of his wealth to the poor to restore fourfold any money he took from people. He offered to give double the amount required by Law.

Lesson 1: Haggai 2:1-9

1. Nothing (v. 3). Look at the situation, Haggai says to the returned exiles. What do you see? Do you remember what the temple was before the Babylonians burned it? And this is God's house where he dwells and meets with his people for worship. If anything is to be done to improve conditions, we must first realize how bad or serious the situation is. Do we know and realize the sad state of affairs we are in as a world with nuclear weapons? Do we sense the decadence in contemporary society? Are we aware how lethargic and apathetic the church is today?

2. Courage (v. 4,). The exiles face a mammoth task: the re-building of the temple to be even greater in splendor than the one built by Solomon. They are only a poor group of returned exiles. They do not even have homes for themselves. Where will they get enough workmen because their number is small? And the cost - where will these poor, dispossessed people get the money to buy the materials? No wonder Haggai three times called for courage: to the governor, the high priest, and the people. Where would they get the needed courage? Look at verse 5: "My Spirit abides among you; fear not."

3. Mine (v. 8). Where is the money coming from to re-build the temple? It is our cry today: Where will we get the money to build a new church, or to feed the hungry millions, or to send missionaries abroad? Haggai reminded his people that all their gold and silver belong to Yahweh. He has given what we have, and when we give to God, we are only returning what he gave us - "We give thee but thine own ..."

Lesson 2: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12

1. Worthy (vv. 5, 11). With today's emphasis on human worth and dignity, we do not hear the question of our worthiness. Who is worthy to receive Holy Communion? Who is worthy to ascend into the hill of the Lord? In these verses Paul voices the hope that his people may be worthy of God's kingdom and of his call. Are we proving that we are worth the kingdom and the call to be God's people? How can anyone be worthy? The secret is in verse 11 - Paul prays that God will make us worthy.

2. Destruction (v. 9). Is there a real hell? Will the wicked be punished? This is another subject we have dropped in our generation. Now we restrict our preaching to the love of God, and love and hell do not go together. Strange that Paul above all others stressed love of God in Christ, but in this pericope tells his people who are suffering persecution for their faith that God will pay back their persecutors, that he will seek revenge by giving the oppressors "eternal destruction."

3. Glorified (vv. 10, 12). Christ will be glorified in his people. He does not only have the glory given by the Father, not only the glory in himself, but the glory of his faithful people. As a teacher's glory is in his/her students, as a mother's glory is in her children, Christ's glory is in his followers. What manner of people must we be to be Christ's glory? Christ is glorified in those who endure suffering for his sake, who constantly increase their love for each other, and who express their faith in loving service to all humankind.

Preaching Possibilities

Gospel:
Luke 19:1-10

1. Is Jesus After You? 19:10 "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
Need: Most people think of seeing God, but in this text we see that God in Christ is seeking us. He seeks to save us. That means Jesus is after us if we are lost. But, what does it mean to be saved? Who is lost? Is this a sermon for only those outside the church? Or, are "Members" still not saved? Is salvation a one-event experience or is it a process? Moreover, in this text we get the answer to the need for people's understanding of the primary purpose of the church - to reach out as a little Christ to the unsaved world and bring the world to a saving relationship with God.
Outline: Is Jesus after you?
a. Are you lost? What does it mean to be lost?
b. Are you being sought? In what ways is Jesus seeking you?
c. Are you saved? What does it mean to be saved? Are you sure of your salvation?
(This sermon can be turned around for use as a message on evangelism. It is the primary purpose of a Christian to seek the lost for Christ.)

2. What Jesus Says to a Sinner. 19:1-10
Need: One of the worries of a Christian who goes on a visit to a prospective member of the church is what he will say that may result in a favorable decision to accept Christ and join the church. In this passage, we hear what Jesus has to say to a sinner and succeeds. This is not necessarily a lesson on how to make an evangelistic visit, but it may apply to each person in the church.
Outline: What Jesus says to a sinner
a. Come down - v. 5a. Come down from your high perch on the tree of life. Come down from your pride, your isolation, your sin.
b. Come in - v. 5b. Jesus said he had to come into Zaccheus' house. Zacchaeus "received him joyfully." Jesus' coming in means forgiveness and acceptance.
c. Come clean - v. 8. Zacchaeus cleaned up his dirty life by repentance. He gave half of his wealth to the poor and restored fourfold what he took.

3. Steps to Life. 19:1-10
Need: People need to know the simple steps from a life of sin to a Christian, a life in Christ. The steps are illustrated in Zacchaeus' conversion.
Outline: What steps do you take to get life in Christ?
a. Climb - v. 4. This means your wanting to see and know Jesus because you need him.
b. Confront - v. 5. Jesus saw Zacchaeus in the tree. He ordered him to come down and together they went to Zacchaeus' house.
c. Change - v. 8. Christ's acceptance of Zacchaeus made him change his life.

4. Does Anybody Want You? 19:1-6
Need: Many feel that nobody wants them. They feel unloved and not needed. The experience of Zacchaeus shows that at least Jesus wants you.
Outline: You may be another Zacchaeus.
a. Nobody wants you - v. 2. Zacchaeus was unpopular and was isolated because he was a traitor (publican) and unrighteously rich.
b. Christ wants you - v. 5.
c. You want Christ - v. 6.

5. How to Grow Tall. 19:1-10
Need: Most of us feel we are "little" people. We don't amount to much. We have little talent, wealth, and influence. We may be suffering from inferiority feelings. Like Zacchaeus, we may be physically small - just a runt! But, we long to grow tall. We want to be big in Christ, in spiritual stature, and in character. The Gospel tells us how a little man became a big man in Christ.
Outline: How a little person can grow tall.
a. Get interested in Christ - v. 3.
b. Accept Christ into your life - v. 6.
c. Make changes in your life - v. 8.

Lesson 1: Haggai 2:1-9

1. What it Takes to Build a Church. 2:1-9
Need: Churches do not build themselves. It takes human cooperation with God to build a church whether physically, numerically, or spiritually. This applies to every church, for every church needs building numerically and spiritually if not physically. If a church is not building, it is on the decline and one day it will close its doors. Though Haggai was faced with the physical erection of the temple, his principles are still applicable to today's church.
Outline: What it takes to build a church -
a. Realize the need for the church to be built - v. 3
b. Have courage to build it - v. 4
c. Work in building it - v. 4
d. Give your funds for the building program - v. 8

2. Except the Lord Build. 2:1-9
Need: When a church needs to be built or re-built, there is a tendency for some to think it is a human project. We must educate, enlist, and inspire people to build. The truth is we cannot build a church numerically, spiritually, or physically by ourselves. Only God can do it through us. "Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." Church building is God's work.
Outline: God alone builds churches through us -
a. It is God's house, not any human's - v. 3
b. God's Spirit gives the courage to build - v. 5
c. God's money pays for the building.

Lesson 1: Exodus 34:5-9

This pericope should be considered, as with every lection, in the light of the context. While Moses was on Mt. Sinai for forty days getting the Ten Commandments, the people turned to idolatry by worshiping a golden calf. In his anger, Moses broke the tablets on which were written the laws. Now, Moses is instructed to get new tablets and to return to the mountain top to get a second edition. God explains why he is giving the people a second chance - he is a God of mercy.

1. God Can 'I Help It! 34:5-7
Need: It is hard for many to realize that God is one of mercy and love. They can understand his power as they live in a natural world of hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. They can understand his justice, for they can believe their sin deserves judgment - punishment is a law of life. People need to know that the basic nature of God is compassion, love, and mercy. This is God, his nature. Because of this, God forgives.
Outline: God can't help that he forgives.
a. His nature is love - v. 6
b. Love must forgive - v. 7

2. The Other Side of God. 34:5-9
Need: We keep emphasizing that God is love, and therefore there is forgiveness. This is one side of the coin and we are prone to ignore the other side. God is also a just God who brings judgment upon sin. God is not easy on sin or sinners. They who sin and refuse to repent are sure to experience the wrath of God. Wrath is a subject seldom heard in today's pulpits.
Outline: Look at the other side of God.
a. The God who is against sin - v. 7a. God does not wink at wrongdoing.
b. The God whose judgment continues - v. 7b. The consequence of sin cannot be contained, like an oil spill. Children suffer from the sins of their parents.
c. The God who needs our intercession - v. 9. Pray for the forgiveness of sinners.

Lesson 1: Wisdom 11:22--12:1

Underneath It All Is God
Need: The church sometimes forgets that good and bad times are all superseded by the love and wisdom of God who rises above and sees beyond our limited vision. We need to lift our vision when God seems invisible, and sharpen it when he is in sight.
1. When life seems right, God deserves the glory
a. God gave the impetus for every good thing
b. We owe God allegiance and praise for his wise governance
2. When life seems wrong, God is the ruler still
a. In spite of appearances, God's wisdom undergirds even the bad times we experience.
b. Knowing God's rule when he is visible helps us to trust him when he seems invisible.

Lesson 2: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12

1. God Did Not Promise a Rose Garden. 1:5-12
Need: Christians are not free from the hardships, suffering, and tragedy of a non-Christian world. God never promised a rose garden, sun without rain, peace without pain, or joy without sorrow. But Jesus did promise self-denial and a cross. In our text Paul writes about the suffering his people are experiencing at the hands of non-Christians. And Christians today are suffering for the same reason.
Outline: God did not promise us a rose garden -
a. The fact of life: thorns not roses - v. 5
b. Comfort: Persecutors will also suffer - vv. 6-9
c. Joy: Endurance in suffering glorifies Christ - vv. 10-12

2. The Hell You Say! 1:5-9
Need: Many today do not believe hell exists. Non-Christians tell others "to go to hell." In recent times Christians have so emphasized the love of God that hell has no place in that concept of an all-loving, forgiving, and saving God. Yet, Paul is very clear and emphatic in this passage that those who persecute Christians for their faith are going to hell to suffer and to die. To this some would say, "The hell you say!" Justice demands a hell. In contemporary life, a man rapes and murders a woman and gets a life sentence but is paroled in five years. A drunken driver kills a youth on a bicycle and gets a modest fine. Where is the justice in this? Paul would say that these persecutors will pay for it when Christ returns.
Outline: What you need to know about hell -
a. Hell is for real - vv. 6-8
b. The inhabitants of hell - v. 8
c. The condition in hell - v. 9



REFORMATION SUNDAY
(Lutheran Only)

Jeremiah 31:31-34 The promise of a new covenant.
Romans 3:19-28 Justification by grace through faith, not works.
John 8:31-36 Jesus' disciples know the truth which frees.

Hymn of the Day
"A Mighty Fortress"

Theme for the Day: Salvation: The Work of God
Gospel - God gave Christ to set men free from sin.
Lesson 1 - God promises a new covenant of forgiveness.
Lesson 2 - God justifies the sinner by grace through faith.

Several themes can be found in today's lessons: freedom from sin, knowledge of the truth, the grace of God. The predominant theme is salvation as the sole work of God by grace through faith. In the Gospel, God's greatest work is Christ whom to know is to be free. In the First Lesson God comes to offer a new relationship that is personal and internal. Paul, in the Second Lesson, gives the famous passage concerning God's justification of the sinner by faith in Christ. Very definitely there is no suggestion that man has any part in his reconciliation with God. God does it all. In the Hymn of the Day we are assured of God's victory over Satan, our ancient foe.

Theological Reflections

Gospel

1. Truth (v. 32). When Pilate asked Jesus what truth was, he gave no answer. In this passage Jesus defines the truth. It is in his word, for he spoke God's Word. As long as we hold to the word of Jesus, we will be his disciples and will know the truth. It is not a truth of science, politics, nor economics. It is religious truth personified and spoken by Christ. It is the truth of God and life.

2. If (v. 31). Though it has only two letters, it is a big word. Jesus says we will know the truth and be free "if" we continue in his word. It is possible to lose the word of Jesus through negligence or unconcern. We can fall from the truth and lose our religious freedom if we ever sever ourselves from the Word.

3. Free (v. 32). The truth of Christ frees. It does not mean necessarily women's liberation or political independence. These may follow. It is freedom in and of religion. Truth frees us from false religious beliefs, superstitions, and practices. Christ's truth frees us from the Law. Christ frees us from the bondage of sin by his death on the cross. Out of his spiritual freedom come other freedoms. If we are free before and in God, we will not be content until we are free among men.

Lesson 1

1. New (v. 31). Here is a corrective to Ecclesiastes which says there is nothing new. God makes a new covenant. Note that man has nothing to do with it. God has the idea and he proposes the new covenant. This is evidence of God's grace in giving his people another chance to be his people. What is new about it? It is new in that the covenant will be made with the individual rather than with the nation as a whole. it is new in that each will instinctively know God rather than learning of God through teaching.

2. Husband (v. 32). God calls himself a husband of his people. It infers a marriage between God and his people. This is the meaning of covenant. It is a personal relationship between God and his people. Like a marriage, they belong to each other and enjoy a oneness in love and loyalty. It is expressed in God's words, "I will be their God and they will be my people." Sin breaks the marriage relationship, for sin is disloyalty to God. Thus, it was necessary to have a new covenant.

3. Know (v. 34). In the Scriptures knowledge is more than cognition. as one would know a fact. To know God is to enter a relationship with him in a covenant. Thus, one cannot be taught to know God. It is an act of commitment and an entering into union with God. Thus, everyone will instinctively know God and it is not a matter of rote.

Lesson 2

1. Justified (vv. 20, 24, 26, 28). This is an important word in this pericope. The word is associated with a court. The judge acquits the guilty one. He is exonerated and allowed to go free. It is not that he was innocent, but the judge accounted him as innocent because of the penalty paid by another, Christ. The sinner is not righteous, but he is accounted or considered righteous for Jesus' sake.

2. Righteousness (vv. 21, 22, 25). The righteousness of God is not the popular understanding of goodness, perfection, or justice. In the Scriptures, righteousness means right-relatedness to God. This understanding of the word gave Luther his liberation and insight into the Gospel. It is not a word to fear nor to cringe at the wrath of God, It means God's goodness is approaching us in good will to offer us reconciliation and peace. By grace we experience the righteousness of God by being rightly related to him through faith.

3. Grace (v. 24). We are saved by grace, not by faith. Giace is the undeserved love of God for sinners. It implies that while we were sinners, Christ died for us - pure grace for the worthless. This grace is made a personal possession when we accept it by faith. The hand that accepts our acceptance is faith. Thus, we are saved by grace through faith. It is the work of God, and this leaves us without any reason for boasting.

Preaching Possibilities

Three Lessons
Jeremiah 31:31-34; Romans 3:19-28; John 8:31-36

1. Let God Save You. Text: Three Lessons
Need: The Gospel is the good news that God alone saves man from sin and death. It is all the work of God. Man has no part in it except to believe and accept it. This runs counter to today's humanism which insists that man is basically good and can take care of himself, if he will only believe in his ability. Luther called upon man to let God be God. It is the peculiar work of God to reconcile humanity. This does not appeal to the pride of man who wants to be self-made and self-sufficient.
Outline: Let God save you.
a. God saves by the truth revealed in Christ - Gospel.
b. God offers a new relationship based on forgiveness - Lesson 1.
c. God saves by grace accepted by faith - Lesson 2.

2. It's All in Knowing.
Need: In these three Lessons is a theme of knowing. Knowledge is the foundation for truth and salvation. Who can respond to God if he does not know him? How can anyone be saved if he dies not knowing what God has done for him in Jesus? This harmonizes with the Reformer's emphasis upon knowing the Bible to learn the truth of God. This craving for knowledge led to the translation and distribution of the Bible that the common people might know the truth of God. Today's lack of biblical knowledge is alarming. A poll reveals that youth know the composers of a popular song but only one-third associated Jesus with the Sermon on the Mount.

3. Grace is Sufficient.
Need: Grace is sufficient for more than physical or mental needs, for more than strength to bear a thorn in the flesh. Grace can be seen in today's three Lessons. Grace is sufficient to bring God and man together as friends. Yet, many church members have no concept of the meaning of grace. In this there is need for this sermon.
Outline: Grace is sufficient.
a. The grace of God is seen in the truth of Jesus - Gospel.
b. The grace of God offers a new covenant - Lesson 1.
c. The grace of God justifies the sinner - Lesson 2.

Gospel

1. You Can Know the Truth. 8:31-32
Need: Truth for man is so elusive that many, like Pilate, wonder what truth is. There is widespread skepticism. What is proclaimed as truth today is not what it was yesterday. Who knows what it will be tomorrow? In addition, there are various kinds of truth: scientific, political, and spiritual. In this passage Jesus is dealing with spiritual truth concerning God and life.
Outline: In this text Jesus tells us -
a. What truth is - "If you continue in my word" - v. 31 Truth is the word of Christ; he in the truth.
b. What truth does - "the truth will make you free" - v. 32

2. Made free - Not Born Free. 8:34-36
Need: A popular song claims we are "born free." This is a widespread opinion. The truth is we are born slaves to sin, born in original sin. We are in bondage to the power of the Devil. This bondage was broken by the cross. Christians are now slaves of Christ, but in Christ slaves are free, The Reformation was the event that called for religious freedom - freedom of conscience, freedom from the false teachings of the Roman Church. This sermon is needed to show that our freedom is in Christ - the freedom to live and love and serve.
Outline: Christians are -
a. Born slaves to sin - v. 34
b. Made free by the Son - v. 36

Lesson 1

1. Are You Living in B. C. or A.D.? 31:31-34
Need: Though Christ was the initiator of the new covenant, many church members live in the old covenant. They live and move within the Old Testament even though they read the New Testament. This sermon is to help the congregation make the transfer to the new covenant promised by Jeremiah and fulfilled by Jesus.
Outline: In which era are you living?
a. Old Covenant?
1. Broken covenant - "which they broke" (v. 32)
2. External covenant - "which I made with their fathers" (v. 32)
3. Taught covenant - "Each man teach his neighbor." (v. 34)
b. New Covenant?
1. Heart - "I will write it upon their hearts." (v. 33)
2. Mind - "They shall all know me." (v. 34)
3. Soul - "I will forgive their iniquity." (v. 34)

2. The New Ever Renewed. 31:31-34
Need: Jeremiah promised God will make a new covenant which was fulfilled by Jesus. It has been almost 2,000 years since the event occurred. Is there need for another new covenant? It is not a matter of a new but a renewed covenant. This renewal occurs each time the Lord's Supper is celebrated; it is a renewal of our baptismal covenant. The new covenant should he forever renewed. The sermon, based on the text, describes the nature of the new covenant.
Outline: Facts about the new covenant.
a. The need for it - "my covenant which they broke" (v. 32)
b. The nature of it - "1 will be their God." (v. 33)
c. The result of it.
1. Knowledge - "They shall all know me." (v. 34)
2. Forgiveness - "I will forgive their iniquity. " (v. 34)

Lesson 2

1. Not Proud to Be a Christian! 3:27-28
Need: A true Christian is not proud to be a Christian. Being a Christian, according to Paul, is no reason for boasting. There is nothing to boast about, because we have nothing to do about being or becoming a Christian. We are made Christians by God's grace. Since some church members are afflicted with a sense of spiritual superiority, this sermon is needed.
Outline: We have no reason to be proud.
a. All of us are sinners - v. 22
b. All of us fail to get right with God by self-effort - v. 20
c. All of us are acceptable to God through faith - v. 28

2. The Steep Ascent to Heaven. 3:19-25
Need: Heaven is our ultimate hope, for heaven is life with God in peace and joy. All want to go to heaven, but not all those talking about it will get there. Consider heaven as high above the earth and every person faces the problem of reaching that height. This sermon is needed to show people there is only one way to reach the height of heaven.
Outline: How to get to heaven - your options -
a. Climb the ladder of the Law - v. 20
It is too high. No one can attain to it. It requires moral perfection by self-effort.
b. Be lifted up on the elevator of grace - vv. 24, 25
The elevator is Christ who lifts us up to God without any effort on our part. All we need is faith to get on the elevator.



ALL SAINTS' SUNDAY
(Common and Lutheran)

Isaiah 26:1-4, 8-9, 12-13, 19-21
In God's city of salvation where the righteous dwell, the dead rise, sing for joy, and escape God's wrath.

Revelation 21:9-11, 22-27
A vision of heaven where the glory of God is a perpetual light and where those whose names are in the Book of Life dwell.

Matthew 5:1-12
The Beatitudes.

Hymn of the Day
"For All the Saints"

Theme for the Day: The Joys of Heaven
Gospel - Happy are those in heaven, for they have their reward.
Lesson 1 - The righteous dead rise and sing for the joy of salvation.
Lesson 2 - The faithful have the joy of living in God's eternal presence.

Today's Lessons deal with the estate of the dead in Christ. It is a condition of joy. In the Gospel, the word "blessed" ("happy") is used nine times to describe those in the kingdom. The righteous dead in Lesson 1 sing for joy that they have salvation. In Lesson 2 the thought of joy is implied, because those in heaven bask in the sunlight of God's presence. The Hymn of the Day is one of praise to Christ for the saints who lived and fought the good fight of faith.

Theological Reflections

Gospel

1. Disciples (v. 1). The Beatitudes are addressed to the disciples of Jesus, not to the public. A disciple is one who believes in Jesus, one who takes up his cross and follows. Christians are blessed or happy people. Does the average Christian convince you of this? Followers of Jesus are happy because they possess the virtues mentioned in the first part of the Beatitudes and because they reap rewards in heaven, the rewards mentioned in the latter half of each Beatitude. Happiness for a Christian is a by-product of the qualities mentioned in the Beatitudes.

2. Is (vv. 3, 10). The verb "is" appears twice in the Beatitudes. The other Beatitudes use the future tense. The present tense is used in connection with the kingdom of Heaven which is a present possession. The kingdom does not begin after death, but begins when Jesus is confessed as Lord. The future tense, "shall" refers to the future condition of the disciple in heaven. It is significant that "shall" is used rather than "will." "Shall" is much stronger than "will." It has an imperative in it, a certainty. The dead in Christ shall most certainly enjoy these rewards. The "shall" is backed up by Jesus' own words of authority.

3. Reward (v. 12). When we get to heaven, we receive our rewards for loyal and devoted service to Christ. The rewards are specified in the Beatitudes: the kingdom, comfort, inheritance, satisfaction, mercy, sight of God, and sons of God. These are not rewards of material largess or pleasures - no 1,000 black-eyed maidens for every man in heaven for his pleasure! The rewards are spiritual. This is natural, for Christians place top priority on spiritual values, and thus heaven is where the values are enjoyed to the fullest.

Lesson 1

1. Song (vv. 1, 19). At the end of time God's people will sing. Now there is tribulation and trouble, despair and defeat. In the end God will come and vindicate his people. They will be delivered from all their troubles. God's people will sing a song of joy because the dead will rise and light will scatter the darkness of death. It is a great thing to know that the end of the world will be a happy song for the faithful. We can live today in hope.

2. Strong city (v. 1). The city of God is a strong city because it has spiritual vitality. Its walls are salvation. It is strong because its citizens are righteous. They trust in the Lord who is an eternal rock. As a result the city has peace. Isaiah makes no mention of conditions which today would make a strong city - police, fire protection, fiscal health, expanding population. Apparently, these do not make a strong city.

3. Wrath (v. 20). When God comes at the end of time, the wicked will experience the wrath of God. He is coming to punish evil-doers. What shall we make of this? Is it an obsolete notion which may have been useful in a less enlightened age? If God is justice, then wrath is necessary. If God is holy, he cannot endure sin. The Bible does not suggest at any place that in the end a God of love will save all men, including the Devil. It is not God's intention or will that any should perish, but those who refuse his mercy choose their own damnation.

Lesson 2

1. Bride (v. 9). Jesus has a bride, the church - believers and followers of God. The bride is a city of holy people, made holy by the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Like a bride, the church is adorned with the glory of God and enriched with precious jewels. Here is the church as it should be -- without spot or wrinkle. This is the church triumphant. The church militant has a long way to go. It is good to remember that the church, militant and triumphant, is of God and consists of God's people.

2. No temple (v. 22). Here is a city without a church. Would you want to live in a city without a church? The heavenly city of Jerusalem has no temple in it. A temple is Gods residence among his people. Because God pervades heaven, there is no need for a temple. Heaven is a holy place where God is all and in all.

3. Book of Life (v. 27). Not everyone goes to heaven. Heaven is only for those whose names are in the "Book of Life." The wicked, unbelievers do not have their names in this book. To have your name inscribed, you must accept Christ as Lord and Savior in whose blood your name is written. This passage agrees with Isaiah in Lesson 1 - the wicked have no part in heaven. There is no universal salvation. And when does one get one's name in the Book of Life? It is written while on earth at the time a sinner repents and by faith accepts the mercy of God in Christ. It is at baptism that the name of the baptized is recorded in the Book of Life.

Preaching Possibilities

Three Lessons
Isaiah 26:1-4, 8-9, 12-13, 19-21; Revelation 21:9-11, 22-27; Matthew 5:1-12

1. The Sacred City. Text: Three Lessons
Need: A few years ago Harvey Cox's book, The Secular City, was a best seller and widely discussed. It gave an insight into the secularism of urban life. In contrast, the three Lessons give a description of a sacred city, the city of God. The inhabitants of this city are God's own people, the redeemed. This sermon is needed to face and fight one of the church's main enemies: secularism. It is the task of the church to change the secular city into the sacred city.
Outline: The sacred city is -
a. The blessed city - Gospel
b. The strong city - Lesson 1
c. The holy city - Lesson 2

2. Happy Are the Dead.
Need: The Lessons deal with the joys of heaven. If we could see that heaven is a happy place, we would not grieve for our dead in Christ and our own fear of death would be removed. There is joy in heaven. It is a delightful place to be.
Outline: Happy are the dead because -
a. They have their reward - Gospel
b. They sing for joy - Lesson 1
c. They are with God - Lesson 2

Gospel

1. A Heaven of Happiness. 5:1-12
Need: Today we want happiness here and now and not "pie in the sky by and by." On this All Saints' Sunday, our attention is focused on those who died for Christ. What is their condition? What can we expect when we die? The Beatitudes list the kinds of people who are happy ("blessed") now and in heaven. "Shall" points to the future happiness of the dead in Christ.
Outline: Heaven is a haven of happy people.
a. They have the kingdom - vv. 3, 10
b. They have their needs fulfilled - vv. 4-7
c. They are with God - vv. 8, 9

2. The Best Is Yet to Be. 5:1-13
Need: Life for the Christian may be good on earth, but the very best life on earth is nothing compared with the life to come in heaven. This gives us hope and patience in our tribulation. With Paul we can say "to die is gain."
Outline: The better life to come -
a. Comfort for those who mourn now - v. 4
b. Fulfillment of the desire for goodness - v. 6
c. Mercy for those who are merciful now - v. 7
d. A vision of God for the pure in heart - v. 8

Lesson 1

1. A Song of the Living Dead. 26:19
Need: According to Isaiah, the dead shall rise and sing a song. Can you hear all heaven singing? In the book of Revelation, the saints repeatedly sing songs of praise to the Lamb. The song they sing tells us something about their condition.
Outline: The song of the living dead -
a. A song of joy - "awake and sing for joy."
b. A song of life - "awake and sing."
c. A song of light - "For thy dew is a dew of light."

2. A Strong City. 26:1-3
Need: In Biblical times cities had to be fortified with walls and soldiers for protection against invaders. The modern city has need for protection from a different kind of enemy. Today's city may not be strong because it is weak from financial bankruptcy, crime, poverty, and corruption. The Christian city is a strong city, the city of God's people in heaven.
Outline: The strong city of God's people has -
a. Walls of salvation - v. 1
b. Gates of righteousness - v. 2
c. People of peace - v. 3

Lesson 2

1. What Heaven Is Not. 21:22-27
Need: Church people have many ideas of heaven that are not scriptural. This passage tells us what heaven is like by describing what it is not. It is a negative way to get across a positive picture. The sermon is needed to clear up false conceptions of heaven.
Outline: What heaven does not have.
a. No church - "I saw no temple in the city."
b. No sun - "The city has no need of sun."
c. No closed doors - "Its gates shall never be shut."
d. No sinners - "Nothing unclean shall enter it."

2. Here Comes the Bride. 21:9-11
Need: An exciting moment is when a bride starts her procession down the center aisle of a church. All eyes turn to see her coming. In this text we are asked to see the celestial bride coming down from heaven in spectacular array.
Outline: Here comes the bride.
a. Who is she? - "The wife of the Lamb" (v. 9)
b. Whence is she coming? - "Coming down out of heaven" (v. 10)
c. What does she wear? - "having the glory of God" (v. 11)



PROPER 27
November 6-12
Common

PENTECOST 25
Lutheran

ORDINARY TIME 32
Roman Catholic

The Lessons

Zechariah 7:1-10
Not fasting but justice and compassion Yahweh desires. Zechariah was a contemporary of Haggai. He supported Haggai in his call for re-building the temple. Zechariah preached in Judah to the returned exiles between 520 and 518 B.C. He probably saw the temple completed in 516. While Haggai was primarily concerned with the re-building of the temple, Zechariah called for repentance and social righteousness. In today's passage the question is raised whether weeping and fasting should continue as in past years. The answer from Yahweh was: Your fasting in the past was for yourselves and not for me. I desire justice and compassion for the needy including widows, orphans, strangers, and the poor. It is more pleasing to Yahweh when his people not harbor evil thoughts in their hearts against a brother.

1 Chronicles 29:10-13 (L)
David publicly blesses and thanks God.

2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14
Faithful in the face of persecution. Seven brothers are arrested and tortured because they will not violate Jewish dietary laws. They remain steadfast to their conscience and religious convictions in the face of punishment which leads to death. In giving their witness, they affirm the promise of the resurrection to life with God.

2 Thessalonians 2:13-3:5 (C, L)
2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5 (RC)
Paul thanks God for his people and asks for their prayers.
For the second time Paul writes, "We are bound to give thanks to God always for you." (1:3, 2:3) He is thankful that God called them to salvation through the gospel he preached to them. They are to stand firm in this faith. He closes the second chapter with a benediction that God will comfort their hearts. As he thinks of closing the letter, Paul asks the church to pray for him that the Word may spread and triumph and that he and his co-workers may be delivered from evil men. The pericope closes with Paul's expression of his confidence that God will strengthen them and that they will obey what he commanded them.

Luke 20:27-38
In heaven there is no marriage, but there is a resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees give Jesus a trick question. It was based on the Levirate law (Deuteronomy 25:5) that if a woman's husband dies and leaves no children, the next of kin must marry her and have children to guarantee the progeny. The irony of the question is in the fact that the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection because it was not in the Torah. In fact, life after death is not mentioned in the Old Testament except in Daniel and a few Psalms. Jesus did not answer the question as to which of the seven brothers would be the husband. He used the question as an occasion to teach the nature and existence of the resurrection of the dead. For one thing, heaven is not a continuation of earthly life and therefore there is no marriage in heaven. Also, there is a resurrection and a life after death. This is based on the nature of God, for he is the God of the living and not of the dead.

Prayer of the Day
"Stir up, O Lord, the wills of your faithful people to seek more eagerly the help you offer, that, at the last, they may enjoy the fruit of salvation."

Hymn of the Day
"I know that my Redeemer Lives!"

Theological Reflections

Gospel: Luke 20:27-38

1. Resurrection (v. 27). The religious parties of Jesus' day were divided on the subject of the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees claimed there was none, because, except for Daniel and a few Psalms, the Old Testament made no mention of it. On the other hand, the Pharisees believed in a resurrection. The Sadducees had a trick question for Jesus based on the Levirate law that a childless widow had to be married by next of kin. If a woman had seven husbands, whose wife will the woman be? Jesus did not answer the question but changed the subject to life after death. Jesus affirmed the resurrection of the dead, and accordingly all are alive in heaven.

2. Attain (v. 35). According to these words of Jesus, not every one is going to heaven. He said, "Those who are accounted worthy to attain to that age ..." Because one is a human does not mean eternal life or heaven for every person. Only those accounted worthy to "attain" this privilege go to heaven. Christians attain this privilege not by character, gifts, or good works, but by faith in Christ who alone gives eternal life.

3. Living (v. 38). Jesus said that God is not God of the dead but of the "living." Life after death is a reality even though many do not believe there is life after death. We Christians hold to this conviction not because of a philosophic idea nor wishful thinking, nor because we believe the soul is immortal. The doctrine is based on the nature of God. God is the God of the living. He is a living God who gathers his people by bringing them from death to life.

Zechariah 7:1-10

1. Should (v. 3). The people of Bethel in Zechariah's time wanted to know "should" they mourn and fast as they did in the past. Today we need to ask the same question because fasting has largely been dropped during Lent, the traditional season for fasting. Today the emphasis is upon celebration - we want to celebrate Sunday after Sunday after Sunday, but for the most part we do not know what we are celebrating. Since we have minimized sin to the point that confession of sin is no longer mandatory for worship, why should we fast? Fasting is one way we express our sorrow for sinning. Should we go back to fasting?

2. Yourselves (v. 6). When we fasted in past years, we did it for ourselves. In this verse God says we did not do it for him. Our eating and drinking or our lack of it was for our own benefit. Fasting can be for "yourselves" because it can be considered a way to earn merit with God or because we can show people how "holy" we are. Some fast during Lent for personal benefit: the saving of money on things one did not eat or drink or the loss of weight.

3. Show (v. 9). If fasting is done for disciplining ourselves or for expressing repentance, fasting is a good thing. Only when fasting is misused, it is condemned as a religious practice. Our text tells us that God wants more than fasting. He wants us to practice our religion by treating people justly and showing kindness to the needy.

Lesson 2: 2 Thessalonians 2:13--3:5

1. Chose (v. 13). Paul gives thanks to God for the people in Thessalonica because God chose them to be saved. The popular opinion is that we choose Christ and the church. We go church shopping and join a church of our choice. But Jesus said that we did not choose him but he chooses us. This does not mean pre-destination, for when God chooses us to be his children, we can always reject God's choice. What an honor it is for none other than God to choose us!

2. Called (v. 14). We have not only been chosen but we have been called by God to serve him. How does he call us today? Paul says God calls through the Gospel. When it is proclaimed, the Spirit calls us to surrender to God and to go out on a mission for God. What is that call? To be a preacher or teacher or candlestick maker? Each of us needs to learn what God calls us to be and do.

3. Pray (3:1). Think of Paul as a man of God and a man of prayer. Yet he asks his congregation to pray for him. What does he want? He wants the Word to spread and triumph. This is his heart's desire. This is why he is living: to proclaim the Word of salvation in Christ. He could have asked for prayer for his health or to get released from jail. No, the most important thing is that the Word should triumph and be spread around the world.

Preaching Possibilities

Gospel:
Luke 20:27-38

1. After Death - Anything?
Need: According to a recent Gallup poll, 69 percent of the American people believe there is life after death. While the figure is encouraging, it says that almost one-third do not believe anything follows death. There are more Sadducecs today than when Jesus lived. Do we have any basis for a belief in life after death other than wishful thinking or a personal longing to continue to live? In Jesus' day, the Sadducees used the ridiculous story of a man with seven wives to prove there was no resurrection. In this sermon, we want to show that life after death is not our doing but is God's work. It is based on the truth that God is an everliving God and is the God of the living, because they live in him.
Outline: There is life after death because
a. God is God only of the living - v. 38
b. God loves us in Christ - v. 36
c. God lives in us by faith in Christ - v. 38

2. Life in a New Age. 20:34-38
Need: As in the case of the Sadducees, many have false ideas of life after death. The Sadducees considered heaven to be an extension of earthly life. Jesus had to correct this idea. Does he have to correct our ideas also? Jesus refers to "this age" and "to that age" of heaven. They are worlds apart.
Outline: Life in a new age
a. Spiritual and not physical - v. 34. Since there are no physical bodies, there is no sex.
b. Fellowship and not marriage - v. 35. Since there is no death, there is no need for procreation.
C. Life and not death - v. 36. Since people in heaven cannot die, they are eternal sons of God.

3. No Marriage in Heaven - Good? 20:34-35
Need: If we think there is marriage in heaven as the Sadducees understood it, we do not understand the nature of God nor of heaven. The fact that there is no marriage may be good or bad news depending upon the state of one's marriage. Some unhappily married people look forward to death as an escape from a miserable marriage.
Outline: No marriage in heaven
a. Why there is no marriage in heaven.
1. Resurrection bodies are spiritual.
2. No need for procreation because nobody dies.
b. Is this good or bad news?
1 . Good news to those unhappily married.
2. Bad news to those -
Happily married
Singles who want to get married

4. No Cemetery in Heaven! 20:36-38
Need: Heaven lacks a number of things: no church, no hunger, no tears. Best of all, there is no cemetery there, because there is no need for one. Heaven is where the living God is and where his people live in and with him. These people do not die but share eternal life with Christ.
Outline: There is no death in heaven because:
a. God is a God only of the living - v. 38a
b. People live in and to God - v. 38b

Lesson 1: Zechariah 7:1-10

1. Substituting Religion for Religion. 7:1-10
Need: Religion can deteriorate to where it is an end in itself. This is called religiosity. It is a substitute for real religion. Religion can be ingrown to the point it becomes "out of this world." It can be ceremonialism without commitment, liturgics without living, and profession without practice. This was the issue in Zechariah's time: weeping and fasting or practical behavior? It is an issue in our day, too. How do we explain the existence of so many churches and so much crime in our society? For many there is no connection between what we say and sing on Sundays and what we practice on Mondays.
Outline: Consider the problem -
a. The question of religious practice - v. 3
b. The possible substitute for true religion - vv. 4-7
c. The answer: a religior1 acceptable to God - vv. 9-10

2. In Defense of Fasting. 7:3
Need: In our day most Christians no longer fast. The custom of fasting during Lent is no longer popular. Roman Catholics since Vatican 2 do not require fasting before Holy Communion. Yet, fasting has always been a vital part of the Judec-Christian religion. Jesus, the Disciples, the saints, Luther, Wesley and other prime leaders of the church made it a practice. Instead of condemning fasting for its misuse, people today need to be encouraged to fast. The question of the people of Bethel is before us today: Shall we fast as was done in the past?
Outline: In defense of true fasting -
a. Fasting expresses contrition for sin.
b. Fasting is self-discipline.
c. Fasting places the spirit above the flesh.
d. Fasting arouses compassion for the needy.

Lesson 1: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13

1. PTL Christians. 29:10-13
Need: A certain religious broadcaster is known for his "PTL Club" - "Praise the Lord." David was the first to join this club: "Praise thy glorious name." (v. 13) All who appreciate the transcendence of God in terms of his majesty, glory, and power respond with praise. Charismatics do not have a monopoly in praising God. It is a privilege of all lovers of God.
Outline: Praise the Lord - for what?
a. Praise him for his greatness - v. 11a
b. Praise him for his creation - v. 11b
c. Praise him for his providence - v. 12

2. What God Deserves. 20:10-13
Need: This sermon is needed because many take God and his blessings for granted. We seem to think that it is God's business to love, care for, and forgive us. Consequently, we take our blessings as our right. This is the height of ingratitude, and God must be disappointed with this kind of response.
Outline: What God deserves from us.
a. Bless God - v. 10
b. Thank God - v. 13a
c. Praise God - v. 13b

Lesson 1: 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14

What's a Life Worth?
Need: Christians need to be prepared for testing times. The time to be ready for adversity is when no adversity is at hand. When it comes down to life-and-death choices, we can rest assured that, live or die, we are in God's good care.
1. Nothing, if untrue to God
a. Convictions that bend when tough times come are no convictions at all
b. We can sell our soul and end up with an empty life
2. Everything, if true to God
a. The seven brothers witnessed clearly in their dying; even their persecutors were impressed
b. The hope of resurrection removed the victory the persecutors claimed

Lesson 2: 2 Thessalonians 2:16--3:5

1. There is Hope for You!
Need: In a day of discouragement, depression, and despair many feel there is no hope out of their troubles. Some consider themselves or others as hopeless. Hope disappears when we think that things will never improve. We are doomed to things as they are. But, there is hope, for hope is not based on us or on the world but on God. Hope is a gift of God. if we go to God, we can have hope, for hope is ultimately based on the nature of God.
Outline: There is hope for you, because
a. God loves you in Christ - v. 16a
b. God saves you through the grace of Christ - v. 16b
c. God is faithful in protecting you - v. 3

2. Two-Way Prayer, 2:16-3:1-5
Need: Prayer is a two-way communication between God and the believer. It should also be a two-way deal among Christians. As one prays for another, the other reciprocates in prayer. We need to pray for each other, for we all are in need of prayer, In this text Paul prays for his people and he asks them to pray for him. Here is an ideal situation between a pastor and his people. it would also work in the family and on the job.
Outline: Pray for each other.
a. Like Paul pray for others - vv. 16, 17, 5. Comfort, hope, and love.
b. Like Paul ask for prayer - v. 1. Speed and triumph of the Word.