It would be worth getting to worship this week…,
Sermons Deepen Our Appreciation of Salvation
It is the “sine qua non” of a Lutheran sermon (literally: the thing without which a sermon is not a Lutheran sermon). It is this: the message of salvation for all through confidence in Christ. Your pastors have taught you to double-check on them, to make sure this message is featured in every sermon. They have instructed you to insist on the same from other pastors, as well.
No wonder! This is the sole earthly message that has heavenly results. This gospel is the only thing that rescues us poor sinners from death eternally. It is a message you want to hear in all fullness every week. The gospel is the one thing that you want ringing in your ears, when you are called to exit this world—and who knows when that might be?
Besides, doesn’t the following happen to you, whenever you’re at church? You are at ease, listening to a sermon. Yet God’s Word from your pastor builds up inside you, making you more and more uneasy, because God is again revealing your guilt. Then, however, your pastor’s pace slows. His voice becomes softer. And from an always unique angle, he declares to you the gospel. Once again, the Holy Spirit accomplishes his saving operation. By the Word, he persuades you to believe, “Ah yes, thank God, that message is true. And it’s true for me! Jesus really did die for all those sins of mine. For my Savior’s sake, I am at peace with my God. Hallelujah!”
That right there is exactly why you’ll be at worship again soon—and regularly!
I resolved to know nothing … except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
(1 Corinthians 2:2)