Martin Luther learned a powerful lesson that, when power-hungry, religious people are threatened, they will even use the Scriptures (in his case the Psalms) to assail and assault you. This should not be a novel insight since the Devil misquoted Psalm 91 in tempting Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:5-6). It is interesting to note … Continue reading The Indictment of Martin Luther – “A Wild Boar”
Martin Luther & Singing the Psalms
Martin Luther encouraged praying the Psalms by providing the common people with singable versions of metrical psalms in their own language. He acknowledged that, the common and ancient custom of the Christian church [was] to sing Psalms. St. Paul himself instituted this in I Corinthians 14:15 and exhorted the Colossians [3:16] to sing spiritual songs … Continue reading Martin Luther & Singing the Psalms
A Scripture Reading for “A Mighty Fortress”
We live in a dangerous world full of adversaries. Yet, our Old Testament Lesson teaches that we have true and lasting security in the Lord our God. Let us read responsively select verses from the Psalms and Proverbs: Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Savior of those who seek refuge from their adversaries at your … Continue reading A Scripture Reading for “A Mighty Fortress”
Prayer of Confession by Martin Luther
Behold, Lord, I am an empty vessel that needs to be filled. My Lord, fill it. I am weak in faith; Strengthen me. I am cold in love; Warm me and make me fervent that my love may go out to my neighbor. I do not have a strong and firm faith; at times I … Continue reading Prayer of Confession by Martin Luther
The Psalter Lesson for Reformation Sunday – A Responsive Reading
Our Psalter Lesson highlights God’s protection of us, God’s presence with us, and God’s power for us that instills the courage to face and conquer fear. Let us read responsively Psalm 46: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though … Continue reading The Psalter Lesson for Reformation Sunday – A Responsive Reading
Martin Luther & The Courage to Face Your Fears
On Sunday, October 29th, we will celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. We remember on this day that Martin Luther began a process that resulted in the recovery of the biblical gospel. Many congregations will recall the efforts of Martin Luther and will sing his famous hymn based on Psalm 46 entitled "A Mighty … Continue reading Martin Luther & The Courage to Face Your Fears
When the Lord Redeploys You
The call of God on all of our lives is to serve God lovingly and contentedly. The tenth commandment to not covet teaches us that. However, sometimes a restlessness of soul lingers that comes from the Spirit of God when He is preparing you for something new. John Piper offers you wise counsel when God … Continue reading When the Lord Redeploys You
Martin Luther’s Reflection on Music
God’s Fair and Glorious Gift “Music is a fair and glorious gift of God. I would not for the world forego my humble share of music. Singers are never sorrowful, but are merry, and smile through their troubles in song. Music makes people kinder, gentler, more staid and reasonable. I am strongly persuaded that after … Continue reading Martin Luther’s Reflection on Music
Preach the Gospel to Yourself – How?
How have believers in the past proclaimed the gospel to their own hearts? Why not reflect on the examples below and then write out your own summary of the gospel? Then use it as a tool in spiritual battle when you are plagued with a sense of condemnation, shame, and guilt: 1. The Apostle Paul … Continue reading Preach the Gospel to Yourself – How?
The Power of Worship
Both for perplexity and for dulled conscience the remedy is the same; sincere and spiritual worship. For worship is the submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by His holiness; the nourishment of mind with His truth; the purifying of imagination by His beauty; the opening of the heart … Continue reading The Power of Worship
2Cherish2Commend 