For this First Sunday in Lent, I begin my sermon series on "Renewal of Your Baptism." I will be discussing the five components as mentioned in the Evangelical Lutheran Worship under the Affirmation of Baptism. They are:
1. Live among God's Faithful People
2. Hear the Word of God and Share in the Lord's Supper
3. Proclaim the Good News of God in Christ through Word and Deed
4. Serve All People Following the Example of Jesus
5. Strive for Justice and Peace in All the Earth
As Lent historically was a time of preparing people for baptism, it is my hope that we can see areas where renewal can develop for us, based on being baptized into Jesus Christ. My message this Sunday will focus on "Living among God's Faithful People." Christian community comes to us as a legacy that Jesus left. My message will be based on several biblical texts.
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship...they spent much time together in the temple" Acts 2:42
"Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete." 2 John 12
"Truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." Matthew 18:19
Community becomes important for us in order to encourage one another and to bear one another's burdens. It's all part of living in Christ. We all need each other and we all have something to contribute. It is not an option; rather it is part and parcel of having been brought to faith in Christ.
I would invite you to reflect on these passages of Scripture and their implications for Christian community. May God's blessing be upon your preparation for Sunday and for your experience in worship.
Discipleship Questions for Reflection
How much does being part of a community of Christians mean to you?
What can you do to strengthen the life of the Christian community to which you belong?
1. Live among God's Faithful People
2. Hear the Word of God and Share in the Lord's Supper
3. Proclaim the Good News of God in Christ through Word and Deed
4. Serve All People Following the Example of Jesus
5. Strive for Justice and Peace in All the Earth
As Lent historically was a time of preparing people for baptism, it is my hope that we can see areas where renewal can develop for us, based on being baptized into Jesus Christ. My message this Sunday will focus on "Living among God's Faithful People." Christian community comes to us as a legacy that Jesus left. My message will be based on several biblical texts.
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship...they spent much time together in the temple" Acts 2:42
"Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete." 2 John 12
"Truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." Matthew 18:19
Community becomes important for us in order to encourage one another and to bear one another's burdens. It's all part of living in Christ. We all need each other and we all have something to contribute. It is not an option; rather it is part and parcel of having been brought to faith in Christ.
I would invite you to reflect on these passages of Scripture and their implications for Christian community. May God's blessing be upon your preparation for Sunday and for your experience in worship.
Discipleship Questions for Reflection
How much does being part of a community of Christians mean to you?
What can you do to strengthen the life of the Christian community to which you belong?
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