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October 26 Worship

10/20/2014

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For this upcoming Reformation Sunday, I will be exploring Martin Luther's contributions to the church. It's important to remember that Luther sought reform within the church.  As it was in history, a new denomination came about that bears his name. 

Luther wanted people to experience the freedom that comes from the Gospel.  The text from Romans that was very powerful for him was this:

"..the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe."  Romans 1:22

"For we hold that a person is justified by faith, apart from the works prescribed by the law."  Romans 3:28.

Luther sought to liberate people from a works-righteousness religion; and thereby, liberating their consciences as well.  He explained that you cannot earn or buy your way into heaven.  It is only by faith in Christ that you are saved.  It is Christ's righteousness by which one is delivered and saved.

We can also be thankful for these other areas of Luther's work and emphasis.

1.  Putting the Bible into the language of the people.
2.  Putting worship in the language of the people.
3.  Bringing in congregational singing.
4.  Emphasizing the concept of "vocation" where the idea of calling was not just restricted to religious orders.

His contributions live on for us today.  The message on Sunday will highlight the above areas.


Discipleship Questions for Reflection

How do you feel about being an active participant in worship as Luther developed in his day?

Are there any subtle ways in which you feel you have earned God's favor on your own?


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October 19 Worship

10/13/2014

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This month the congregation celebrates its 74th anniversary.  While it is not a major milestone (like next year), I believe it is still a time to remember God's provision in allowing us to continue another year of ministry.

My message will be based on the words of 1 Thessalonians where the apostle Paul writes:

"We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thess. 1:2-3

Paul was proud of this congregation and notice how he phrases his thankfulness - in the trilogy of faith, love, and hope.  Because of the action of the Holy Spirit we are able to have faith, love, and hope that goes well beyond how the world perceives these qualities.

As a pastor I am thankful for the participation of the members of Savior Divine in the Sunday worship and other ways in which they live out their faith.  

This past year has been significant for us in terms of two discipleship studies, joint worship with congregations of another denomination, the ministry of Elsie's Food Pantry reaching out to more and more people, and upgrades to our property.  I am thankful to God for all of these happenings.

I hope that as we approach our worship this Sunday, we would be thankful for having another year of God's grace.  You may want to read the full portion of Scripture that will be used for my message which is 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10.

Discipleship Questions for Reflection

What do you remember best about Savior Divine during the past 12 months?

What do you look forward to next year?
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October 12 Worship

10/5/2014

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I come now to the end of my sermon series on Philippians.  It is here that the apostle Paul wants to move those in this new congregation from anxiety to joy and peace.  He wants them to have a certain frame of mind that comes from knowing Christ.

Capture for yourself these powerful words that he writes in this chapter:

"Do not worry about anything, but with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."


"Rejoice in the Lord, always; again I will say, Rejoice."

Do you wonder how the apostle Paul could be so upbeat considering that he is writing this letter from prison?  It is because he recognized the power of his faith in Christ.  He was willing to trust Christ for everything; and thereby, he could find joy and peace.

In living in today's world and even in listening to the news on the radio or TV, there is enough to bring on anxiety.  We must be focused enough to sift through all of this chatter and focus on all that Christ brings to us.

In preparation for Sunday's worship, I would invite you to reflect on these words from Philippians; and if you have the time, to read the entire chapter.

Discipleship Questions for Reflection

Are there situations in your life that are really troubling you and that you need to place in God's hands?

Do you have this sense of joy and peace in your life?  If not, what might move you in this direction?
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    I invite you to reflect on these words of Scripture in preparing for worship.

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    Pastor Marty Pauschke

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