Easter 3
Preaching
Lectionary Preaching Workbook
Series IX, Cycle B
Object:
Theme of the Day
Amazing grace. Historically this has been a Sunday to celebrate the goodness of God.
Collect of the Day
A petition is offered that we be filled with God's words of life to live as witnesses to the resurrection. Sanctification by grace is again emphasized along with evangelism.
Psalm of the Day
Psalm 4
* A lament attributed to David; a prayer for deliverance from personal enemies.
* Begins with cry for help, an appeal to God's graciousness (v. 1).
* Rebukes those accusing the Psalmist of wrongdoing (vv. 2-4). In turn, the accused is assured of the Lord's help; this assistance is related to the performance of sacrifice in the temple (v. 6). This is a Psalm about gratitude to God.
Sermon Text and Title
"God's Work, Not Ours"
Acts 3:12-19
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
A sermon on Justification by Grace (with implications for better understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit) and God's good providential activities, with an eye toward the opportunities these beliefs might provide for evangelism.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* Part of a sermon by Peter at Solomon's portico on the east side of the Jerusalem Temple following the healing of a lame man (vv. 1-11).
* He begins by asking the crowd of Jews who had gathered after the healing why they seemed excited as if he and John had performed the miracle (v. 12).
* Reference is made to the God of Abraham and other patriarchs who has glorified Jesus His servant, the One rejected by the people (v. 13). Peter blames the Jewish crowd for the death of Jesus, identified as the holy and righteous One, the author of life. His resurrection is proclaimed (v. 14-15).
* The healing of the lame man is said to have happened by faith in Jesus' name (v. 16).
* Peter then notes that the Jewish crowd acted in ignorance (like their rulers) in Jesus' death (v. 17). For in this way God fulfilled the prophecy that His Messiah would suffer (v. 18). Reference to Isaiah's Suffering Servant (49:1-6; 50:4-11; 52:13--53:12).
* A call is issued for repentance in order that sins might be wiped out (v. 19).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* An examination of God's role in doing good among us. Consideration must by given to Justification by Grace alone, Providence (God as band leader), and the work of the Holy Spirit.
* Commenting on verse 12 and Peter's insistence that it was God and not he who healed the lame man, the great preacher of the early church John Chrysostom saw it as having broader implications for our view of justification. He wrote: "… for by our own merit we did not draw down the Divine influence" (Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series, Vol. 11, p. 55).
* Regarding verse 18, John Calvin comments:
This is a most notable consideration, when as we ponder and consider with ourselves, that through the wonderful counsel of God our evils are turned to another end to us, yet this doth no whit excuse us….
(Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XVIII/2, p. 149)
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* The American public seems more inclined to take the sort of credit for doing good themselves that Peter reneged on, rather than follow his lead in giving God and grace the credit. See statistics in this section for the Second Lesson, Lent 4.
5. Gimmick
Americans want the credit for the good they've done. We think we are born good. Religious Americans even think they can please God. Cite statistics alluded to in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights. But Peter and the Bible say we lie!
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* Peter had just healed a crippled man and had begun preaching outside of the Temple in Jerusalem (vv. 1-8). In essence, while many in the crowd who had observed this miracle seemed to credit Peter and John with the healing (v. 12), Peter sees this as an evangelism opportunity. He wants to make it clear that the healing was the result of Jesus, by calling upon His name (v. 16). But first he recounts the Passion narrative, the Jews' rejection of the servant of God who needed to suffer, and then he proclaims the Easter word, of His resurrection from the dead (vv. 13-15)!
* Peter does not seem to want to take any credit. Why, it's downright un-American! Norwegian immigrants to this country sensed this characteristic of ours soon after entering the country. It was commonly said in such circles: "Americans like to toot their own horns." No, Peter's not a good American, but he sure does have his theology and faith right.
* We need to get this word out, both to correct a lot of false impressions about Christianity, and also because this word has a splendid track record in evangelism. Cite the quotation by John Chrysostom in Theological Insights. Develop the idea that we cannot draw God to us. None of us has that kind of goodness. He has to show up on His own initiative to bail us out of the mess we are in.
* Giving God the glory for all good that is done seems to be all over the Bible. Note it is evident not just in this lesson but also in our Second Lesson. Read 1 John 3:4-5 and Ephesians 2:8-9. Christianity is all about receiving from God what he has done, not about what we do. And it is the Holy Spirit who we believe brings these gifts (see Galatians 5:15-16, 22-25). Maybe the problem with many Christians is that we do not pay enough attention to the work of the Holy Spirit, and as a result fail to give God credit for all the good he does through us.
* About this life of receiving, Martin Luther put it this way once in a sermon:
So one is not called a Christian because he does much, but because he receives something from Christ, draws from Him and lets Christ only give to him. If one no longer receives anything from Christ, he is no longer a Christian, so that the name Christian continues to be based only on receiving, and not on giving and doing….
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 3, pp. 329-330)
* Consider the quotation by John Calvin in Theological Insights. Even the things we do that mess up, Calvin says, get turned to good by God. What a freeing word in our present pressure cooker American context, where many are just one paycheck or pink-slip (job-loss) away from financial ruin. The good that happens is God's work, not ours.
* You also tend to see more miracles in life when you see the good as God's work, not ours -- because then healing and health, money, property, family, and job are not natural, but supernatural. Such seemingly normal things become truly amazing -- like amazing grace.
* Peter took the opportunity in his context to do evangelism with this viewpoint. Consider trying that strategy today. It is certainly a word that gives Christianity a unique niche in today's "do it yourself" ethos. The point can be made so easily and unobtrusively without coming across like some "holy roller." Next time people are talking about some good thing in life, about how all their hard work paid off, just quietly comment (again and again each time a similar event transpires and your acquaintances will begin to hear it), "Well, I think it was a miracle (or a gift of God)."
* Wait, is this nonsense? Will it not lead to laziness on our part? Peter and John sure kept busy here, throughout their lives. They preached and healed. Wait. They thought God did it.
* Introduce the concept of God as band leader (see Providence in Charts of the Major Theological Options.) Musicians in the band play the music. But the job of making sure the music sounds good, that good is done, is the band leader's job. And sometimes the musicians mess up, and the band leader's arrangements are so good it is still an overall good performance. So it is that God the band leader does the good, not us.
7. Wrap-Up
Conclude with a comment that the popular culture of America lies. We can't do good on our own. It takes God, the One who forgives us, the Holy Spirit who leads, the band leader who directs us, to make good.
Sermon Text and Title
"The Amazing Love of God"
1 John 3:1-7
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
To proclaim the unconditional love of God (Justification by Grace Alone) despite our sinful hypocrisy and also to portray the Christian life (Sanctification) as simultaneously saint and sinner.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* A discussion of right conduct which must be associated with brotherly and sisterly relationships.
* The lesson begins with an assertion of the profound love the Father has given the faithful that they should be called children of God. The world does not know this because the world does not know Christ (v. 1).
* Referring to readers as "beloved," the author notes that through God's children, what we will be has not yet been revealed. But we do know that when God is revealed the faithful will be like Him, for they will see Him as He is (v. 2). All with this hope in Him purify themselves, just as God is pure (v. 3).
* All who commit sin are guilty of lawlessness, for sin is lawlessness (v. 4). He [Christ] was revealed to take away sins; in Him there is no sin (v. 5).
* No one who abides in God abides in sins, and everyone sinning does not know Him (v. 6).
* Urges readers to let no one deceive them. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as God is righteous (v. 7).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* Addresses sin, atonement, Justification by Grace (as Intimate Union) and Sanctification (Christian life as simul iustus et peccator).
* John Calvin notes that the favor God has shown us should kindle the desire for purity (Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XXII/2, p. 202). Since all this "flows from the mere love of God alone, there is nothing left to our worthiness or to the merits of works" (Ibid., p. 203). Martin Luther calls the Word of this love the "forge and furnace" (Luther's Works, Vol. 30, p. 265).
* Calvin adds that the faithful see Christ as a friend, for to see Him makes them like Him (Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XXII/2, p. 205). Knowledge of Christ is strong and efficacious, for it transforms us into His image (Ibid., p. 210).
* He interprets verse 6 as referring only to those who run to evil with their whole heart deliberately, not all who sin (Ibid., p. 208).
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* For statistics on America's need for a word of unconditional grace, see the survey statistics for Second Lesson, Lent 2.
* Also consider the data in this section for the First Lesson.
* A 2008 poll of unchurched Americans conducted by Lifeway Research indicated that 72% of them believe the church is full of hypocrites.
5. Gimmick
Begin with a story about lunchtime at work and how often the conversation turns to church and religion. Most coworkers don't go to church much and start unloading about the hypocrisy of Christians. Then they begin to confront you (the members of the congregation individually), saying that you are no perfect human being either, despite your regular involvement in the church.
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* Ask the congregation if this has ever happened to them or if they have ever worried about being found out that they were not as good a Christian as they should be. Note that 7 in 10 unchurched Americans agree with the coworkers in our story concerning our hypocrisy (see Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights).
* As a pastor, the preacher might confess such anxiety about being found out.
* Concede that this charge is longstanding. Christians are people with all sorts of high-minded ideals who then go out and live like everybody else. But Christians never claimed to be perfect. Martin Luther had it right: The church is a hospital for sick people (Luther's Works, Vol. 25, p. 263). And yet in a way Christians ask for the criticism. We claim to be special. And the world responds with laughter.
* Special? We are special because God loves us. Our lesson says that. It proclaims that we are God's children (vv. 1-2)! What makes us special is not that we are better people. God's love makes us different.
* We are not average people, but extraordinary, for the God of creation came to earth and died for us out of love (v. 5). Why? Because we are special -- children of God.
* From the beginning of our lives we were special to our parents. Special from the very first time they laid eyes on us. But what's so special about babies? You can hardly tell them apart. Yet from the beginning we were special to somebody. We had done nothing, yet from the beginning we had a destiny, to be the child of our parents.
* This is the way it is with Christians. We are all children of God! We are special but as children we have not begun to reach our maturity. We are much like every other child, pock-marked with sin, selfishness, and other forms of sin. Yet God has put His mark on us. We have a destiny. His stamp, His love, is transforming, even though, as our lesson says, what we will be is not yet revealed (v. 2). Growing up in God's family we're going to adopt His ways, become like Him (v. 2).
* John Calvin had it right. He compared God's love to that of a friend. Use third bullet point of Theological Insights.
* This love of God is amazing. Martin Luther calls it a forge and furnace. Also note Calvin's comments likewise in the second bullet point of Theological Insights; Luther quotes in Theological Insights for Second Lesson, Lent 4, and cross-references cited in that section. This amazing love burns us up and conforms us to its ends, like a furnace turns all in its midst to fire.
7. Wrap-Up
In a way, churchgoers are hypocrites. But if we really understand the mystery of God's amazing love, then our hypocritical tendencies ultimately don't matter. They don't matter because God's amazing love is shining through us like a parent's love shapes a child, and the child is just on the way. That is how it is with Christians. What we will be has not yet been revealed (v. 2), but the amazing love is changing us, to become a pale reflection of this amazing love. Children of God, revel in this love.
Sermon Text and Title
"What Easter Means for Everyday Life"
Luke 24:36b-48
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
To proclaim the Easter word of hope and resurrection to those in despair and fearing death.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* Luke's version of the post-Easter resurrection appearances of Jesus, unique (compared to other gospel accounts) in the details provided.
* The disciples in Jerusalem had been talking about the story of Jesus' appearance on the road to Emmaus (vv. 13-36a), when He appeared to them with a peace greeting (v. 36b). Such a greeting was conventional for Jews, but may be a sign of the kingdom of God (2:14, 29).
* The disciples are startled, and Jesus asks them why they have been frightened or doubted the news of His resurrection (vv. 37-38).
* Jesus invites them to see and touch His body (vv. 39-40). Though joyful, they are still disbelieving (v. 41a). He responds by eating fish in front of them (vv. 41b-43).
* Jesus reminds His followers of the works He spoke to them, that everything written in the Hebrew Scripture about him has been fulfilled (v. 44). He opens their minds to understand these scriptures (v. 45).
* It is written, Jesus claims, that the Messiah is to suffer and rise on the third day, that repentance and forgiveness is to be proclaimed to all (vv. 46-47). The disciples are witnesses (v. 48).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* Focus on Justification by Grace through Faith and Eschatology (the promise of eternal life in the face of fear of death).
* John Wesley claimed that when Jesus opened the disciples' minds (v. 45) it was by the illumination of His Spirit (Commentary on the Bible, p. 453).
* John Calvin concurs, adding comments about our sinful nature:
We ought, therefore to acknowledge that we come short in every respect, so that the heavenly doctrine proves to be useful and efficacious to us, only insofar as the Spirit both forms our minds to understand it, and our hearts to submit to its yoke; and, therefore, that in order to our being properly qualified for becoming His disciples, we must all arise all confidence in our own abilities, and seek light from heaven...
(Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XVII/1, p. 375)
* For Martin Luther, "a Christian is at the same time sinner and saint" (Complete Sermons, Vol. 6, p. 39). But he adds:
And where this faith is, God sees sin no more for you stand in the presence of God, not in your own name, but in Christ's name, who adorns you with grace and righteousness….
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 6, p. 39)
* About the disciples gathering in seclusion, Luther writes:
This is written for us, that we might learn that the gospel of Christ's resurrection comforts only the fainthearted. And who are these? They are the poor, conscience-stricken ones, whose sins lie heavily upon them, who feel their faint heart, are loath to die, and are well-nigh startled by the sound of a rustling leaf. To these contrite, poor, and needy souls, the Gospel offers comfort, to them it is a sweet savor.
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 1/2, p. 303)
If you think: Behold, now death is approaching and staring me in the face; would that I had someone to comfort me, that I might not despair, then know that for this purpose the gospel is good, here it belongs, here its use is blessed and salutary.
(Ibid., p. 304)
* The Reformer addressed the case of those who believe in the gospel but whose manner of life falls short. They begin to despair and think all is lost because they did not feel Christ's strength. Luther claims that in this way we learn God's strength in weakness (Ibid., p. 309).
* About Jesus' mandate to the disciples to preach repentance, Luther proclaimed:
Yea, even though a man who is under grace and is sanctified falls away again from repentance and faith and thus loses his forgiveness, nevertheless this kingdom of grace stands firm and unmovable so that one may at any time be reinstated in it… in like manner as the sun rises daily in the heavens, and not only banishes the past night but proceeds without interruption to shine throughout the day, even though it be darkened and covered with thick clouds, yes even though someone closes his doors and windows against its light, still it remains the selfsame sun and, breaking all barriers down, it again and again presents itself to view.
(Ibid., pp. 347-348)
* He elaborates further on precisely what is the forgiveness of sins that Jesus would have His followers proclaim:
This then is preaching the forgiveness of sins in His name, that we do not point only to confession, or to a certain hour… But now forgiveness is so great and powerful, that God not only forgives the former sins you have committed; but looks through His fingers and forgives the sins you will yet commit.
(Ibid., p. 317)
* Luther proceeds to elaborate on the awesomeness of what Christ has done for us in the resurrection:
Must not the heart presently start with alarm at its own boldness and say: Do you really think it is true that the great and majestic God, the maker of heaven and earth, has so regarded my misery and so mercifully looked upon me, deeply and manifoldly as I have sinned against Him…? How can such grace and such a treasure be grasped by the human heart, or in fact by any creature?
(Ibid., p. 330)
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* A 2006 survey of those over 60 conducted by the AARP indicated that belief in eternal life was by no means certain among Americans. Two out of five men in that age range are uncertain. Since those expressing confidence indicated that such confidence had increased with age, it is a safe assumption that close to a majority of all Americans may have thought about what lies beyond death.
* In late 2008 CBS News reported that 1 in 20 Americans aged 12 and older were depressed.
5. Gimmick
Life can be hard and scary sometimes. The fear of death is on the horizon. Ask the congregation if they have ever felt those feelings of despair. Then note that if they have felt despair they are in good company. Cite the data in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights.
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* French philosopher E. Morin well summed up the human condition facing death: "The certainty of death and the uncertainty of the hour of death is a source of grief throughout our life."
* To the relative confidence displayed by nearly half of Americans about facing death (see the poll statistics cited above in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights), the ancient Greek poet Euripides said it well: "When death comes around, nobody is willing to die and old age is no longer a burden." Death is something that makes us all uneasy, fills us with despair.
* Note how Jesus' disciples seemed to be experiencing despair. They had heard the good news of Jesus' Resurrection, but remained in despair, probably because they didn't quite believe it (vv. 37-38). And then Jesus appeared!
* Use the first Luther quote in the fifth bullet point of Theological Insights. We and the disciples who could not quite believe that Jesus had risen have a lot in common. We are feeling their faintheartedness, stricken by conscience, fearing death, filled with despair. Ask the congregation again if this is not their situation.
* Things begin to change, though, in the presence of our risen Lord. Easter can have an impact on your everyday life.
* Martin Luther rightly warns us that, like the disciples, sometimes we don't feel Christ's strength. See the sixth bullet point in Theological Insights. We are sinners and have weak faith, but just the same Christ comes for us. And in the gospel Christ relates to forgiveness of sins that He wants the disciples to proclaim (v. 47).
* Elaborate on this word of forgiveness and its power to overcome despair and the fear of death by citing and elaborating on the fifth, sixth, and seventh bullet points of Theological Insights. In these cases note how Luther speaks of the resurrection comforting the faint-hearted, especially those afraid to die. In our weakness God is strong; God's Easter love, like the sun, keeps shining in the midst of our sins.
* Michael Jackson, for all the despair he encountered in his too-short life, sang a word of wisdom that was more Christian than he perhaps knew: "In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream." These are words of hope, words of comfort we can take into the new week. No matter how bad things look, even if death stares us in the face, the Easter word is that Jesus overcame death and those with faith in him will too. The sun keeps shining in the darkness of death and hopelessness.
* Sometimes we despair over how little we have or can accomplish in life. John Calvin offers wise counsel: "Let us not cease to do the utmost, that we may incessantly go forward in the way of the Lord; and let us not despair of the smallness of our accomplishments." You've got to take first, halting steps to get somewhere. Hold on to that Easter word of hope the next time you wonder if all your busyness, if your life really matters.
* Jesus has a wonderful job for the disciples and us: To proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name (v. 47). Elaborate again on the seventh bullet point of Theological Insights about how the light of God's forgiveness keeps shining despite our sin and lack of sufficient repentance. About the mandate to proclaim forgiveness of sin, elaborate on the eighth bullet point in Theological Insights. Even the sins we have not yet committed are forgiven.
7. Wrap-Up
Repeat the previous point about God forgiving both the sins we have done and the sins we will get around to doing. Such love is so awesome. Cite the last bullet point in Theological Insights. How can we even grasp how marvelous the Easter word is? Death, meaninglessness, aimlessness, despair don't have a chance when that sort of love and forgiveness, when such security given by God, confronts all the despair. That's what Easter means for everyday life.
Amazing grace. Historically this has been a Sunday to celebrate the goodness of God.
Collect of the Day
A petition is offered that we be filled with God's words of life to live as witnesses to the resurrection. Sanctification by grace is again emphasized along with evangelism.
Psalm of the Day
Psalm 4
* A lament attributed to David; a prayer for deliverance from personal enemies.
* Begins with cry for help, an appeal to God's graciousness (v. 1).
* Rebukes those accusing the Psalmist of wrongdoing (vv. 2-4). In turn, the accused is assured of the Lord's help; this assistance is related to the performance of sacrifice in the temple (v. 6). This is a Psalm about gratitude to God.
Sermon Text and Title
"God's Work, Not Ours"
Acts 3:12-19
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
A sermon on Justification by Grace (with implications for better understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit) and God's good providential activities, with an eye toward the opportunities these beliefs might provide for evangelism.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* Part of a sermon by Peter at Solomon's portico on the east side of the Jerusalem Temple following the healing of a lame man (vv. 1-11).
* He begins by asking the crowd of Jews who had gathered after the healing why they seemed excited as if he and John had performed the miracle (v. 12).
* Reference is made to the God of Abraham and other patriarchs who has glorified Jesus His servant, the One rejected by the people (v. 13). Peter blames the Jewish crowd for the death of Jesus, identified as the holy and righteous One, the author of life. His resurrection is proclaimed (v. 14-15).
* The healing of the lame man is said to have happened by faith in Jesus' name (v. 16).
* Peter then notes that the Jewish crowd acted in ignorance (like their rulers) in Jesus' death (v. 17). For in this way God fulfilled the prophecy that His Messiah would suffer (v. 18). Reference to Isaiah's Suffering Servant (49:1-6; 50:4-11; 52:13--53:12).
* A call is issued for repentance in order that sins might be wiped out (v. 19).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* An examination of God's role in doing good among us. Consideration must by given to Justification by Grace alone, Providence (God as band leader), and the work of the Holy Spirit.
* Commenting on verse 12 and Peter's insistence that it was God and not he who healed the lame man, the great preacher of the early church John Chrysostom saw it as having broader implications for our view of justification. He wrote: "… for by our own merit we did not draw down the Divine influence" (Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, First Series, Vol. 11, p. 55).
* Regarding verse 18, John Calvin comments:
This is a most notable consideration, when as we ponder and consider with ourselves, that through the wonderful counsel of God our evils are turned to another end to us, yet this doth no whit excuse us….
(Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XVIII/2, p. 149)
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* The American public seems more inclined to take the sort of credit for doing good themselves that Peter reneged on, rather than follow his lead in giving God and grace the credit. See statistics in this section for the Second Lesson, Lent 4.
5. Gimmick
Americans want the credit for the good they've done. We think we are born good. Religious Americans even think they can please God. Cite statistics alluded to in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights. But Peter and the Bible say we lie!
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* Peter had just healed a crippled man and had begun preaching outside of the Temple in Jerusalem (vv. 1-8). In essence, while many in the crowd who had observed this miracle seemed to credit Peter and John with the healing (v. 12), Peter sees this as an evangelism opportunity. He wants to make it clear that the healing was the result of Jesus, by calling upon His name (v. 16). But first he recounts the Passion narrative, the Jews' rejection of the servant of God who needed to suffer, and then he proclaims the Easter word, of His resurrection from the dead (vv. 13-15)!
* Peter does not seem to want to take any credit. Why, it's downright un-American! Norwegian immigrants to this country sensed this characteristic of ours soon after entering the country. It was commonly said in such circles: "Americans like to toot their own horns." No, Peter's not a good American, but he sure does have his theology and faith right.
* We need to get this word out, both to correct a lot of false impressions about Christianity, and also because this word has a splendid track record in evangelism. Cite the quotation by John Chrysostom in Theological Insights. Develop the idea that we cannot draw God to us. None of us has that kind of goodness. He has to show up on His own initiative to bail us out of the mess we are in.
* Giving God the glory for all good that is done seems to be all over the Bible. Note it is evident not just in this lesson but also in our Second Lesson. Read 1 John 3:4-5 and Ephesians 2:8-9. Christianity is all about receiving from God what he has done, not about what we do. And it is the Holy Spirit who we believe brings these gifts (see Galatians 5:15-16, 22-25). Maybe the problem with many Christians is that we do not pay enough attention to the work of the Holy Spirit, and as a result fail to give God credit for all the good he does through us.
* About this life of receiving, Martin Luther put it this way once in a sermon:
So one is not called a Christian because he does much, but because he receives something from Christ, draws from Him and lets Christ only give to him. If one no longer receives anything from Christ, he is no longer a Christian, so that the name Christian continues to be based only on receiving, and not on giving and doing….
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 3, pp. 329-330)
* Consider the quotation by John Calvin in Theological Insights. Even the things we do that mess up, Calvin says, get turned to good by God. What a freeing word in our present pressure cooker American context, where many are just one paycheck or pink-slip (job-loss) away from financial ruin. The good that happens is God's work, not ours.
* You also tend to see more miracles in life when you see the good as God's work, not ours -- because then healing and health, money, property, family, and job are not natural, but supernatural. Such seemingly normal things become truly amazing -- like amazing grace.
* Peter took the opportunity in his context to do evangelism with this viewpoint. Consider trying that strategy today. It is certainly a word that gives Christianity a unique niche in today's "do it yourself" ethos. The point can be made so easily and unobtrusively without coming across like some "holy roller." Next time people are talking about some good thing in life, about how all their hard work paid off, just quietly comment (again and again each time a similar event transpires and your acquaintances will begin to hear it), "Well, I think it was a miracle (or a gift of God)."
* Wait, is this nonsense? Will it not lead to laziness on our part? Peter and John sure kept busy here, throughout their lives. They preached and healed. Wait. They thought God did it.
* Introduce the concept of God as band leader (see Providence in Charts of the Major Theological Options.) Musicians in the band play the music. But the job of making sure the music sounds good, that good is done, is the band leader's job. And sometimes the musicians mess up, and the band leader's arrangements are so good it is still an overall good performance. So it is that God the band leader does the good, not us.
7. Wrap-Up
Conclude with a comment that the popular culture of America lies. We can't do good on our own. It takes God, the One who forgives us, the Holy Spirit who leads, the band leader who directs us, to make good.
Sermon Text and Title
"The Amazing Love of God"
1 John 3:1-7
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
To proclaim the unconditional love of God (Justification by Grace Alone) despite our sinful hypocrisy and also to portray the Christian life (Sanctification) as simultaneously saint and sinner.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* A discussion of right conduct which must be associated with brotherly and sisterly relationships.
* The lesson begins with an assertion of the profound love the Father has given the faithful that they should be called children of God. The world does not know this because the world does not know Christ (v. 1).
* Referring to readers as "beloved," the author notes that through God's children, what we will be has not yet been revealed. But we do know that when God is revealed the faithful will be like Him, for they will see Him as He is (v. 2). All with this hope in Him purify themselves, just as God is pure (v. 3).
* All who commit sin are guilty of lawlessness, for sin is lawlessness (v. 4). He [Christ] was revealed to take away sins; in Him there is no sin (v. 5).
* No one who abides in God abides in sins, and everyone sinning does not know Him (v. 6).
* Urges readers to let no one deceive them. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as God is righteous (v. 7).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* Addresses sin, atonement, Justification by Grace (as Intimate Union) and Sanctification (Christian life as simul iustus et peccator).
* John Calvin notes that the favor God has shown us should kindle the desire for purity (Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XXII/2, p. 202). Since all this "flows from the mere love of God alone, there is nothing left to our worthiness or to the merits of works" (Ibid., p. 203). Martin Luther calls the Word of this love the "forge and furnace" (Luther's Works, Vol. 30, p. 265).
* Calvin adds that the faithful see Christ as a friend, for to see Him makes them like Him (Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XXII/2, p. 205). Knowledge of Christ is strong and efficacious, for it transforms us into His image (Ibid., p. 210).
* He interprets verse 6 as referring only to those who run to evil with their whole heart deliberately, not all who sin (Ibid., p. 208).
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* For statistics on America's need for a word of unconditional grace, see the survey statistics for Second Lesson, Lent 2.
* Also consider the data in this section for the First Lesson.
* A 2008 poll of unchurched Americans conducted by Lifeway Research indicated that 72% of them believe the church is full of hypocrites.
5. Gimmick
Begin with a story about lunchtime at work and how often the conversation turns to church and religion. Most coworkers don't go to church much and start unloading about the hypocrisy of Christians. Then they begin to confront you (the members of the congregation individually), saying that you are no perfect human being either, despite your regular involvement in the church.
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* Ask the congregation if this has ever happened to them or if they have ever worried about being found out that they were not as good a Christian as they should be. Note that 7 in 10 unchurched Americans agree with the coworkers in our story concerning our hypocrisy (see Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights).
* As a pastor, the preacher might confess such anxiety about being found out.
* Concede that this charge is longstanding. Christians are people with all sorts of high-minded ideals who then go out and live like everybody else. But Christians never claimed to be perfect. Martin Luther had it right: The church is a hospital for sick people (Luther's Works, Vol. 25, p. 263). And yet in a way Christians ask for the criticism. We claim to be special. And the world responds with laughter.
* Special? We are special because God loves us. Our lesson says that. It proclaims that we are God's children (vv. 1-2)! What makes us special is not that we are better people. God's love makes us different.
* We are not average people, but extraordinary, for the God of creation came to earth and died for us out of love (v. 5). Why? Because we are special -- children of God.
* From the beginning of our lives we were special to our parents. Special from the very first time they laid eyes on us. But what's so special about babies? You can hardly tell them apart. Yet from the beginning we were special to somebody. We had done nothing, yet from the beginning we had a destiny, to be the child of our parents.
* This is the way it is with Christians. We are all children of God! We are special but as children we have not begun to reach our maturity. We are much like every other child, pock-marked with sin, selfishness, and other forms of sin. Yet God has put His mark on us. We have a destiny. His stamp, His love, is transforming, even though, as our lesson says, what we will be is not yet revealed (v. 2). Growing up in God's family we're going to adopt His ways, become like Him (v. 2).
* John Calvin had it right. He compared God's love to that of a friend. Use third bullet point of Theological Insights.
* This love of God is amazing. Martin Luther calls it a forge and furnace. Also note Calvin's comments likewise in the second bullet point of Theological Insights; Luther quotes in Theological Insights for Second Lesson, Lent 4, and cross-references cited in that section. This amazing love burns us up and conforms us to its ends, like a furnace turns all in its midst to fire.
7. Wrap-Up
In a way, churchgoers are hypocrites. But if we really understand the mystery of God's amazing love, then our hypocritical tendencies ultimately don't matter. They don't matter because God's amazing love is shining through us like a parent's love shapes a child, and the child is just on the way. That is how it is with Christians. What we will be has not yet been revealed (v. 2), but the amazing love is changing us, to become a pale reflection of this amazing love. Children of God, revel in this love.
Sermon Text and Title
"What Easter Means for Everyday Life"
Luke 24:36b-48
1. Theological Aim of the Sermon and Strategy
To proclaim the Easter word of hope and resurrection to those in despair and fearing death.
2. Exegesis (see Introduction to Selected Books of the Bible)
* Luke's version of the post-Easter resurrection appearances of Jesus, unique (compared to other gospel accounts) in the details provided.
* The disciples in Jerusalem had been talking about the story of Jesus' appearance on the road to Emmaus (vv. 13-36a), when He appeared to them with a peace greeting (v. 36b). Such a greeting was conventional for Jews, but may be a sign of the kingdom of God (2:14, 29).
* The disciples are startled, and Jesus asks them why they have been frightened or doubted the news of His resurrection (vv. 37-38).
* Jesus invites them to see and touch His body (vv. 39-40). Though joyful, they are still disbelieving (v. 41a). He responds by eating fish in front of them (vv. 41b-43).
* Jesus reminds His followers of the works He spoke to them, that everything written in the Hebrew Scripture about him has been fulfilled (v. 44). He opens their minds to understand these scriptures (v. 45).
* It is written, Jesus claims, that the Messiah is to suffer and rise on the third day, that repentance and forgiveness is to be proclaimed to all (vv. 46-47). The disciples are witnesses (v. 48).
3. Theological Insights (see Charts of the Major Theological Options)
* Focus on Justification by Grace through Faith and Eschatology (the promise of eternal life in the face of fear of death).
* John Wesley claimed that when Jesus opened the disciples' minds (v. 45) it was by the illumination of His Spirit (Commentary on the Bible, p. 453).
* John Calvin concurs, adding comments about our sinful nature:
We ought, therefore to acknowledge that we come short in every respect, so that the heavenly doctrine proves to be useful and efficacious to us, only insofar as the Spirit both forms our minds to understand it, and our hearts to submit to its yoke; and, therefore, that in order to our being properly qualified for becoming His disciples, we must all arise all confidence in our own abilities, and seek light from heaven...
(Calvin's Commentaries, Vol. XVII/1, p. 375)
* For Martin Luther, "a Christian is at the same time sinner and saint" (Complete Sermons, Vol. 6, p. 39). But he adds:
And where this faith is, God sees sin no more for you stand in the presence of God, not in your own name, but in Christ's name, who adorns you with grace and righteousness….
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 6, p. 39)
* About the disciples gathering in seclusion, Luther writes:
This is written for us, that we might learn that the gospel of Christ's resurrection comforts only the fainthearted. And who are these? They are the poor, conscience-stricken ones, whose sins lie heavily upon them, who feel their faint heart, are loath to die, and are well-nigh startled by the sound of a rustling leaf. To these contrite, poor, and needy souls, the Gospel offers comfort, to them it is a sweet savor.
(Complete Sermons, Vol. 1/2, p. 303)
If you think: Behold, now death is approaching and staring me in the face; would that I had someone to comfort me, that I might not despair, then know that for this purpose the gospel is good, here it belongs, here its use is blessed and salutary.
(Ibid., p. 304)
* The Reformer addressed the case of those who believe in the gospel but whose manner of life falls short. They begin to despair and think all is lost because they did not feel Christ's strength. Luther claims that in this way we learn God's strength in weakness (Ibid., p. 309).
* About Jesus' mandate to the disciples to preach repentance, Luther proclaimed:
Yea, even though a man who is under grace and is sanctified falls away again from repentance and faith and thus loses his forgiveness, nevertheless this kingdom of grace stands firm and unmovable so that one may at any time be reinstated in it… in like manner as the sun rises daily in the heavens, and not only banishes the past night but proceeds without interruption to shine throughout the day, even though it be darkened and covered with thick clouds, yes even though someone closes his doors and windows against its light, still it remains the selfsame sun and, breaking all barriers down, it again and again presents itself to view.
(Ibid., pp. 347-348)
* He elaborates further on precisely what is the forgiveness of sins that Jesus would have His followers proclaim:
This then is preaching the forgiveness of sins in His name, that we do not point only to confession, or to a certain hour… But now forgiveness is so great and powerful, that God not only forgives the former sins you have committed; but looks through His fingers and forgives the sins you will yet commit.
(Ibid., p. 317)
* Luther proceeds to elaborate on the awesomeness of what Christ has done for us in the resurrection:
Must not the heart presently start with alarm at its own boldness and say: Do you really think it is true that the great and majestic God, the maker of heaven and earth, has so regarded my misery and so mercifully looked upon me, deeply and manifoldly as I have sinned against Him…? How can such grace and such a treasure be grasped by the human heart, or in fact by any creature?
(Ibid., p. 330)
4. Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights
* A 2006 survey of those over 60 conducted by the AARP indicated that belief in eternal life was by no means certain among Americans. Two out of five men in that age range are uncertain. Since those expressing confidence indicated that such confidence had increased with age, it is a safe assumption that close to a majority of all Americans may have thought about what lies beyond death.
* In late 2008 CBS News reported that 1 in 20 Americans aged 12 and older were depressed.
5. Gimmick
Life can be hard and scary sometimes. The fear of death is on the horizon. Ask the congregation if they have ever felt those feelings of despair. Then note that if they have felt despair they are in good company. Cite the data in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights.
6. Possible Sermon Moves and/or Stories/Examples
* French philosopher E. Morin well summed up the human condition facing death: "The certainty of death and the uncertainty of the hour of death is a source of grief throughout our life."
* To the relative confidence displayed by nearly half of Americans about facing death (see the poll statistics cited above in Socio-Economic, Political, Psychological, and Scientific Insights), the ancient Greek poet Euripides said it well: "When death comes around, nobody is willing to die and old age is no longer a burden." Death is something that makes us all uneasy, fills us with despair.
* Note how Jesus' disciples seemed to be experiencing despair. They had heard the good news of Jesus' Resurrection, but remained in despair, probably because they didn't quite believe it (vv. 37-38). And then Jesus appeared!
* Use the first Luther quote in the fifth bullet point of Theological Insights. We and the disciples who could not quite believe that Jesus had risen have a lot in common. We are feeling their faintheartedness, stricken by conscience, fearing death, filled with despair. Ask the congregation again if this is not their situation.
* Things begin to change, though, in the presence of our risen Lord. Easter can have an impact on your everyday life.
* Martin Luther rightly warns us that, like the disciples, sometimes we don't feel Christ's strength. See the sixth bullet point in Theological Insights. We are sinners and have weak faith, but just the same Christ comes for us. And in the gospel Christ relates to forgiveness of sins that He wants the disciples to proclaim (v. 47).
* Elaborate on this word of forgiveness and its power to overcome despair and the fear of death by citing and elaborating on the fifth, sixth, and seventh bullet points of Theological Insights. In these cases note how Luther speaks of the resurrection comforting the faint-hearted, especially those afraid to die. In our weakness God is strong; God's Easter love, like the sun, keeps shining in the midst of our sins.
* Michael Jackson, for all the despair he encountered in his too-short life, sang a word of wisdom that was more Christian than he perhaps knew: "In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream." These are words of hope, words of comfort we can take into the new week. No matter how bad things look, even if death stares us in the face, the Easter word is that Jesus overcame death and those with faith in him will too. The sun keeps shining in the darkness of death and hopelessness.
* Sometimes we despair over how little we have or can accomplish in life. John Calvin offers wise counsel: "Let us not cease to do the utmost, that we may incessantly go forward in the way of the Lord; and let us not despair of the smallness of our accomplishments." You've got to take first, halting steps to get somewhere. Hold on to that Easter word of hope the next time you wonder if all your busyness, if your life really matters.
* Jesus has a wonderful job for the disciples and us: To proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name (v. 47). Elaborate again on the seventh bullet point of Theological Insights about how the light of God's forgiveness keeps shining despite our sin and lack of sufficient repentance. About the mandate to proclaim forgiveness of sin, elaborate on the eighth bullet point in Theological Insights. Even the sins we have not yet committed are forgiven.
7. Wrap-Up
Repeat the previous point about God forgiving both the sins we have done and the sins we will get around to doing. Such love is so awesome. Cite the last bullet point in Theological Insights. How can we even grasp how marvelous the Easter word is? Death, meaninglessness, aimlessness, despair don't have a chance when that sort of love and forgiveness, when such security given by God, confronts all the despair. That's what Easter means for everyday life.
