Brian Johnson | 2002 LLC Wadena Summer Services - Youth Discussion -- When we are believing, the love of God has been shed into our hearts and we desire to remain close to Him. The life of a believer is in a constant state of warfare with the three-fold enemy. We continuously see and hear about the rampant life of sin in the world around us. Previously held morals and values are eroding. We often feel as righteous Lot, “vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds)” (2 Peter 2:7,8). As children of God we realize that we are not immune to temptations of sin. Our earthly portion is sin-corrupt. As the world around us becomes more accepting of all manner of sin, we, too, face the danger of becoming “accustomed” to and conforming to the worldly ways of this world. How can one find the strength to battle and fight against temptation and sin? By taking heed of the Word of God. Judas, not Iscariot, an apostle of Christ asked Jesus how would he reveal himself unto his own and not unto the world. Jesus responded “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him” (John 14:23). If a Man Love Me, He Will Keep My Words Luther wrote: No one is a Christian unless he keeps Christ’s word. And no one can keep it, unless he has the love of God in the heart. Thus a Christian’s life is to love God. And we love him, because he first loved us. (John 4:19) His love is so great that he gave his only begotten son to suffer and die on behalf of the sins of the entire world (John 3:16, 1 John 4:10). When love awakens us, we then learn who Christ is. Peter writes in his 2nd epistle 3:18, “but grow in the knowledge of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ.” Also John writes “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (I John 4:7). The only thing that will keep God’s commandment and word in us is the desire to love and serve God. Thus, in the kingdom of God, His word in love and truth is for instruction, rebuke, guidance, consolation, encouragement of faith, and forgiveness. As the world around us continues to open the floodgates of sin, we need to remain sober, watchful and ever more fervently turn to God’s Word for support, for answers, for comfort. It is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path! The Apostle Paul instructs young Timothy to cling to the Word of God in the midst of the enemy’s attack: “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 3:13-15). When we love God, we desire to study His Word. We want to read it and study it as often as we are able for learning, comfort, and support of our faith. “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). A child of God has hunger for the Word. He wants to be there where the spoken word is able to warm his cold heart through the gospel, the glad tidings of Christ. This is not a small matter, for “faith cometh by hearing.” Worldliness Can Remove the Love of God From Us With love and truth let’s examine ways that worldliness can creep into the life of a believer and remove the love of God from us. Worldly ways may seem like “no big deal,” but they are a consuming force which are sin. Following are a few examples: Dress or apparel: What we wear on the outside also reveals what is in the heart. By conforming with worldly clothing styles we do not separate ourselves from ways of the world. Offensive apparel often arouses the lusts of the flesh. Peter instructs preciously of the appearance of a child of God: “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price” (I Pet. 3:3-4). Our speech and our actions send a strong message. Cursing and worldly speech is prevalent in this world but should not come from the mouths of believers. Also loud and boisterous behavior, especially at public events, does not set the kind of example of which Timothy speaks: “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12). Courtship is for those who are ready to get to know another believer from the heart with the prayer to God that it would lead to marriage. The dating model of this world does not belong to a believer. Hugging, kissing, caressing, etc. arouse the flesh and lust, which the Bible instructs to flee: “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (II Tim. 2:22). Worldly music can little by little creep into the life of a believer. Its beat, rhythms, words and lyrics show the erosion of morals and values in today’s society. One may start by listening to seemingly innocent worldly music, but little by little stray further and further. Movies and inappropriate video and internet material corrupt our inner being. This material is easily within our reach. It is so seductive and powerful to draw us in and once there, it’s hard to get out. The Apostle instructs: “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof” (Rom. 13:14). We must view these dangers in the light of God’s Word. Love of the world can separate one from God’s kingdom. The cares, glory, and pleasures of the world quickly choke the Word and it becomes unfruitful as described in the parable of the sower: “And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful (Mark 4:18,19).” The Apostle of Love, John, wrote that man cannot live with a divided heart: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:15-17). Worldliness is sin! Dear young, do not idolize the life of the ungodly. Do not accept their worldly speech, dress and lifestyle. Let us remain humble and childlike not desiring to do anything that would transgress the will of the Heavenly Father and that could eventually lead us into unbelief and unto perdition, eternal damnation and hell. Care for Each Other with the Word of Grace The proclamation of the Word has effect when it contains grace and truth. In this proclamation the calling voice of the Good Shepherd is heard. The Good Shepherd yet calls the straying and lost sheep. God’s grace belongs to the penitent and contrite of heart. The gospel is preached to the poor and needy. Dear young brothers and sisters, help one another on the journey. Love each other’s undying souls even if it means that your flesh suffers. When you see in your midst that which is contrary to God’s Word, do not remain silent. Speak individually to those over whom there is concern. Hasten to help and restore the straying or fallen one “in the spirit of meekness” (Gal. 6:1). If there are those who are not concerned about their wrongdoing after you have spoken to them, seek help from some older trusted brothers and sisters in faith. And We Will Come Unto Him, and Make Our Abode with Him The enticements of the enemy of the soul are great. Our journey leads through this world, “the valley of the shadow of death.” Yet we need not fear when we follow the Lord Jesus. He will abide with us through His spirit. He restores our souls and leads us in the paths of righteousness, paths which are illuminated by God’s Word, paths which lead to eternal life. If we continue to follow Him, we will experience that which the psalmist has written, not only in this life, but also in the life to come: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever” (Ps. 23). Dear brother and sister in Christ Jesus, take comfort in John’s writing “But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that are in him” (I John 2:5). We who keep His Word and walk in the light will inherit heaven’s glory. Be encouraged and believe all sins forgiven in Jesus name and blood.

Matti Kontkanen | 2002 LLC Phoenix Winter Service - Congregation Evening - February 22 -- A Christian and Christianity in the World A Believer and the Church in Society I Introduction 1.1. The Love of a Child of God Toward Someone in the World Our beloved speaker brother, the late Ville Suutari, related the following incident from one of his mission trips, which will lead us into the essence of our topic. When, a long time ago, he was in a rural Finnish village on one of his speaking trips, he met a certain speaker brother. This brother was very troubled because his unbelieving neighbor continuously made fun of and harassed him with his scornful ridicule. Once when winter was changing to spring, they ended up on the same log floating crew on a river. Our brother was entrusted with the task of paying the workers their wages. When this neighbor came to get his pay from him, he pointed out how wet and ragged his boots were. “Go ahead and take these good boots of mine, since I don’t have to work in the water,” the brother said, and traded boots with him. That’s when he noticed his neighbor’s torn, filthy and wet socks inside the boots. “Go ahead and take these new socks which my wife sent me,” he said, and gave his new socks to his neighbor. During the same summer, once they had returned home from the log floating job to their home village, the neighbor came to knock on our brother’s window one night, and he wanted to come inside. He repented and said that he felt the love that our brother had shown toward him could not but be heavenly love. This story leads us to note a few things: 1.Individual believers in that locality had loved the undying souls of their neighbors by speaking to them with the word of God. 2.Because of love toward his employer, our speaker brother had done his work conscientiously and had been given the responsible job of paymaster. 3.While performing his duties as paymaster, he demonstrated what values had been inspired by Christian forgiveness and love of his neighbor, which, by faith, guided his heart. The foregoing leads us to conclude that we, as Christians, have a dual mission in the world: 1) To love human beings with the word of God 2) To love human beings with our deeds How could we show love without being involved with people? How could even God have shown His love without becoming flesh and dwelling amongst us? 1.2. The Exhortations to Love Found in God’s Word: We are guided to so do by the word of God: Matt. 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:41 – “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.” Matt. 5:44 – “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” 2 Cor. 3:2 – “Ye are the epistle of Christ.” 1.3. We Have Been Called to Love in Word and Deeds. We will next broaden our perspective from the confined surroundings of a rural home village,” and a workplace that is a river where logs are floated to the surroundings that we all share and from the “neighbor man” and “our speaker brother” to all neighbors and all Christians. 1) First in regard to the surroundings: a) As inhabitants of a rural village and as neighbors, the men lived in singular surroundings, where they had contact when they visited in homes or happened to meet when going about their business in the village. Their fellowship was based on free, bidirectional, situational interaction. This can be active or passive, friendly or hostile. In this instance, the speaker brother had apparently been active in speaking about matters of faith, and this had aroused an active and hostile resistance in the neighbor. b) As “river pigs” or log drivers they were part of an established social environment, wherein people have contact and conduct themselves according to previously agreed upon principles, while, however, adapting to it in their own style that reflects their personal attitudes and values. In these, people may conduct themselves honestly or dishonestly, irresponsibly or responsibly, with indifference or with love. In this instance the speaker brother conducted himself with love, the neighbor was at first indifferent, but, in the end, responded to love with love. 2) Secondly in regard to people: a) The “neighbor man” represented a person who is under the dominion of the world or unbelief. The people of the world may have, as was the case in the story, a scornful attitude toward faith and believers, or they may be curious, or they may withdraw, or show understanding, even feeling sorry for us, or be indifferent, or respectful. b) The “neighbor man” also represented a person as a member of the community, of society – a fellow villager, one of our own kind. As members of the community we all share an objective: trying to gain better living conditions in every regard. Some strive for this objective dishonestly, others honestly, some selfishly, others unselfishly some are active, others passive. In this instance, both men were apparently honest and worked. c) As a neighbor and working man the “speaker brother” represented an individual Christian, but as a “preacher” he represented the congregation of Christians. As individual Christians we can withdraw or be active, we can be fearful or bold. So also as a congregation we can either withdraw or be active. In this instance the “speaker brother” was active when he spoke about matters of faith with the word of God and, later, in his duties as paymaster, he did not remember the wrongs he had experienced, nor did he shrink from showing active love toward the other. The Christian congregation, in this instance, was active in organizing mission services at the request of individual Christians. It would be consistent with the customs of those times, and very probable, that services had been organized and held even in the home of that neighbor man. II Questions Now we can pose some questions: 1) What is the mission of an individual Christian in society? 2) What is the mission of the church in society? 3) What kind of participation in the affairs of society is meant by the expression “we are in the world”? 4) According to what laws and instructions do individual Christians get involved in the affairs of society? 5) According to what instructions does the church nowadays get involved in the affairs of society? 6) What dangers are there in getting involved in the affairs of society? III Answers 3.1 Dangers One obstacle to the conveying of the love of God into the world is caused by Christians withdrawing themselves from the people of the world. The word of God has warnings about the dangers of the love of the world (= living in worldly ways, that is, in the freedom of sin or in self-righteousness). “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” (Ps. 1:1) “And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Cor 6:15) “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (I John 2:15­16). In many instances, because we feel the weakness of our flesh, there is reason to separate ourselves from unbelieving friends whenever their way of life is not in accordance with our conscience. The speaker brother in our example certainly did not participate in the sinful ways of the neighbor man when he went drinking with others, or when he made fun of the speaker brother. But this can lead us astray in the sense that we would not dare, nor want to have any doings, even constructive doings with our unbelieving friends either. Note how the speaker brother in our example did not withdraw from his neighbor when he was issuing his pay, but boldly and openly reacted to the very apparent need that his neighbor had. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18). Although we are not of the world, we are in the world. We will today go deeper into what it means to be in the world. 3.2. Congregational Setting Another reason for the caution that Christians have toward the people of the world is the effect the congregation and the congregation’s activities have on us. We all have an inclination to follow examples that we see during our lives. One good and commendable source of such examples is the congregation and congregational activities. In many things it provides good examples, as, for instance: how to rear children in Christianity and to put the word of God into practice by singing and studying the Bible. Sometimes, however, there is room for criticism too. For the most part, we see how the congregation approaches unbelievers only with the word of God. We really have not become accustomed to the idea that the congregation would direct its activity toward the unbelievers in any other manner, for example: by taking collections for unbelievers, for founding hospitals or schools for them, or by taking stands on political issues. But individual Christians need not look at this restraint by the congregation as a whole as an example for their personal involvement. Even so, it may be that this example is duplicated to some degree in our individual lives as well. 3.3. Societal Setting A third difficulty might be found in the way of thinking that confuses the roles of the church and the government. They each have their own duty and characteristics. The congregation is sacred, because the word of God, which is given life by the Holy Ghost by means of the children of God, works there. A government, on the other hand, is not guided by the word of God even if it is led by, or it has participation in its administration by children of God, who are able to exercise wisdom inspired by the Holy Spirit. A government is not under the administration of an evil spirit, or the spirit of the world, and it is not in opposition to the church. The children of God live here as members both of the church and the society of their country. Within the congregation they are involved according to the word of God and in society according to their conscience and the laws of the land. Neither are the congregation and the government in competition, so that the child of God would have to struggle to gain control of the government. Luther summed up the relationship between the government and the church in his doctrine of the two regimes: 1. Church - purpose: make people righteous - means: the gospel 2. Government - purpose: guarantee outward peace and keep evil conduct under constraint - means: the law and ruling by compulsion Luther sums up these two regimes thus: “These two regimes must be separated and kept separate from each other, and both must be maintained – the one to make people righteous, and the other to provide external peace and to keep evil conduct under constraint. In this world neither is sufficient without the other.” Luther was not in favor of believers withdrawing from society into monasteries. Neither was he in favor of enacting the word of God in society by the rule of compulsion involving law and the courts of law. IV Our Mission Statement In its third part the mission statement of the LLC and its member congregations says: “Our task is to awaken and inspire Christian values and ethics, soberness of mind, love of homeland, and responsible citizenship among the people of our nations.” V How Can These Be Promoted in the Congregations and in the Lives of Individual Christians? A) As a Congregation 1. Our Basic Principle It would appear that when it comes to getting involved in the affairs of the world around us, Christianity has been following a logical format. Individual believers have been at the forefront when it has been necessary to have dealings with the lives of the people around us, and the church has followed to give its support when the strength and resources of individuals have not sufficed. This has happened, for example, in our foreign mission work: The seed of the word was sown by individual believers, and when this has led to growth, and help has been needed, Christianity has sent missionaries to the grain field of the Lord. So also in providing aid, individual Christians have initiated the efforts to aid brothers and sisters in faith, and the congregations have supported this as needed. Is this the guiding principle of Christianity in these matters? Comment from a representative of the LLC. 2. The Teaching of the Church on the Topic of a Christian in Society One of the duties of the church is to rear the children and youth to become responsible members of society. Why have such topics been adopted into the curriculum for Sunday school, Bible class and Confirmation school? Comment from some teacher. 3. Editorial Opinion From time to time there are editorials or other articles in the periodicals of Christianity that take a stand on some contemporary issues in our world. Comment from Paul Waaraniemi. 4. Foreign Aid Projects In recent times there has been exposure to financial aid for brothers and sisters in the field of foreign mission work. There were collections to provide aid already in apostolic times, and so also in our time. Is this an instance of supporting the activities of a congregation or of improving the financial status of individuals? Comment from Jon Bloomquist. 5. Other Forms of Temporal Aid The service agenda for this weekend includes a presentation and discussion on tobacco and drugs. There have been discussions at many camps on issues linked to marriage, mental health, or physical health. Some congregations have offered their facilities for use as polling places in elections. Some individual Christians want to aid people in distress, both in the homeland and abroad, through various charitable organizations. For example, the Red Cross helped the victims of last fall’s terrorist attacks. But our congregations have not, nevertheless, collected money for these charitable organizations, nor have they established comparable aid programs on their own. Or have we? Comment on this. B) As Individual Christians 1. Home The home is the basic unit cell and scale model of society. It is also a scale model of the kingdom of God. The same basic elements are found in the home as in society: authority, rules, education, work, and the same structural components as in the kingdom of God: the gospel and faith. There are two regimes in the home: earthly and spiritual. The parents do double duty as law enforcers and soul caretakers. How are these roles blended together in everyday life in the home? Should the home be like the society that surrounds us? Comment from some parent. 2. School The school teaches knowledge and skills. One of these skills is cooperation and getting along with others. It teaches us believers how we can work and live with unbelievers. How could these skills be taught if a student is schooled at home or if believers had their own school? Comment from someone who has home-schooled their children. Sometimes parents have to have discussions with the teachers on the content of education at school and the methods that are used, when these exceed what is acceptable to a good conscience. What would be a good way to take care of these things? Should we go to school alone, as individual parents, or as a group of parents, or as representatives of the congregation? Do we speak of the matters from our own consciences, or as teachings of the congregation? Will the school listen to us? Comment from a parent. 3. Neighborhood Anne Eskelinen, a believing mother in Laukaa, was bothered when the parents in the neighborhood did not say anything even though they saw that the children in that village were engaging in impermissible conduct. She called the parents together, and they made a joint decision to start rearing all of the children in the neighborhood as though they were their own. The project was given the name “Together into Life.” Soon the idea spread throughout Finland. The project is now a recipient of funds from the EU and Anne Eskelinen has gone to talk about the project in many localities. What does this teach us? Our simple values, which are in accordance with Christian love, may have a demand and be valuable in this world. 4. Our Speech and Our Conduct We can speak and be involved passively, that is, the minimum that is required by laws and codes, or actively a great deal more voluntarily. What would this mean in school and student life? Comment from someone who is active in school affairs. 5. Work Environment Heeding supervisors, diligence and honesty are part of our work ethic. We are also tempted in these aspects. The opistos in Finland have sometimes provided weekend courses where, for example, businessmen have been able to discuss ethics for entrepreneurs. Comment from a believing businessman. 6. Politics Encouragement for us: there are many brothers and sisters in Finland who have faithfully served in politics, some at the national, others at the local level. One of these is a very well-known late brother of ours, Väinö Havas, who was elected to a municipal council at the age of 32 and to parliament at the age of 39. He rendered his most precious service to society, however, as a volunteer soldier in the war against Russia, where he fell in battle at the age of 43. Experiences from some brother or sister who has been involved in politics. 7. Patriotism, and Military Service Comment from a young person who has been in the Armed Forces, or from a war veteran.

Daniel Wuollet | 2001 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Youth Discussion - February 24 -- The word ‘respect’ in the sense that we want to discuss here means "to feel or show deferential regard for: esteem." Another word we could use is reverence. I want to talk about respect in two areas - respect for God, His Word and His congregation, which is where we might use the word reverence, and respect for our fellow man where we might substitute the word esteem. Respect or Reverence For God and His Word When God called Moses to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt, God presented himself to Moses in the form of a burning bush as recorded in the book of Exodus, "And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed." That is, the bush was not burned up. Moses went towards the bush to see what was happening. God then "called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground" (Ex 3:2-5). God told Moses to remove his shoes because Moses was standing on holy ground. God's presence made the ground holy. Moses acknowledged this holy place by doing something out of the ordinary, removing his shoes. In this way, Moses showed respect for God and His Word. We don't literally remove our shoes when we come to the services of God's children, but we do nevertheless want to acknowledge that the church and the services are occasions where God speaks to the believers just as He did to Moses. And just as Moses acknowledged God's presence and showed respect for God by removing his shoes, so we today want to show proper respect towards God. How do we do this? Two ways we show our respect are with our dress and our behavior. Each of us knows what proper dress is, and we all have our "Sunday best" clothes. In recent years, there has been a trend towards accepting casual dress where more formal dress was previously required. Schools have relaxed dress codes for example. Casual Fridays have become common in workplaces and in many places not just on Friday. Similarly there has been greater acceptance of casual clothes at church services. However, the question arises, Does the casual dress also reflect a loss of proper respect for the services and other church-oriented events? This question has been especially raised for things such as communion services where "too casual" dress may be interpreted as diminished respect for this holy sacrament. We know that being dressed up is not what makes the sacrament holy just as Moses removing his shoes did not make the ground holy. God's presence made the ground holy to Moses, and God's presence makes our sacraments and services holy today. Let us consider this question of proper respect when we select the clothes we wear to services. Let us also consider our behavior at services. Surely we understand that we ought to quietly listen when sitting at services, firstly, so that we can be nourished by the spoken word, and secondly so that our behavior does not bother others who come to hear. This is a matter of simple courtesy. But what about those who come so late that they seem to only come to find out where haps are? What about those who sit outside and visit while the sermon is preached seemingly not able to find their way inside? Does this behavior show not only a lack of respect for God's Word but perhaps even demonstrate a disrespectful attitude towards God and His Word? Does it also demonstrate a lack of hunger for God's Word? In recent times in many of our congregations we have been blessed with an abundance of services and other congregational events. Is it possible that we have come to take these events for granted and therefore are not giving them proper respect? Respect or Reverence For Congregational Possessions We have in recent times enjoyed abundant spiritual blessings from God but also have received significant material blessings. We have many new church buildings in member congregations. We have been blessed with church buildings that serve as meeting places for services and also with grounds that have provided space for recreational activities. The grounds here at the Phoenix church, for example, have a concrete basketball court that I am sure has provided innumerable hours of good, healthy fun for the believing young in this congregation. We have also been blessed with wonderful camp facilities that we own as well as having had the opportunity to rent very good facilities for our camp events. A willingness to serve has been present also with the young. Young believers have volunteered to help build, remodel and maintain these physical facilities. This heart of service is a source of much joy for all believers for it demonstrates an understanding of proper respect for the blessings granted by our Heavenly Father. Unfortunately, we have also seen some incidents that seem to demonstrate a lack of such respect. The director at a youth event reported several incidents of deliberate "nuisance damage." Some youth who were asked to help clean up at the end of the event visited while others cleaned, and still some others who were asked to help simply left without pitching in. Here again the question arises, what is the understanding of those who behave in such a way as to willfully cause nuisance damage or worse? Where is the heart of those who skip out when asked to serve? Does this behavior reflect proper respect or reverence for these blessings we have received? Respect or Reverence For Authority Apostle Paul writes in his letter to the Romans in the 13th chapter (verses 1,3,and 5) "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. ... For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: ... Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake." God has therefore placed the offices of authority necessary for this temporal life. And He instructs us to obey this authority not only out of fear, but more importantly, as a matter of conscience. Are we only obedient when parents, teachers or other authority is present to watch our behavior? As Apostle Paul might say, "God forbid." Why is this? Because as the Apostle writes, obedience is "for conscience sake." Each of us knows right from wrong. We rarely do wrong out of ignorance, although certainly that can happen. But far more commonly we are aware when we are tempted to do sin and the weakness of the flesh wants to yield to this temptation. We spend our entire lifetime battling against this temptation to do sin. We battle against sin in order to preserve good conscience. We are obedient to God's word to preserve good conscience. It may be meaningful to examine an incident, again at a youth event. Some young people, presumably all old enough to smoke legally, were smoking in a non-smoking area. When the event director happened by, he asked these young people to put out the cigarettes and they did so. But only moments later, when the director was gone, the cigarettes came out again. It raises the question, what is the guiding influence in these young people? Do they understand that a believer's behavior is guided by conscience and not fear of authority? Apostle Paul also wrote to the Colossians instructing obedience to masters or those in authority "not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;" (Col 3:22-23). Clearly we do not need our parents, camp directors, elders or other authority present in order to do right. To momentarily restrain from wrong behavior in the presence of authority is not showing proper respect for authority; rather it is being hypocritical. Respect or Esteem For Other People Jesus' teaching about how to treat others is so simple that we all learn it at a very young age. We call it the golden rule. Treat others as you want to be treated. (King James English makes this simple rule more difficult in our current language -Luke 6:31 "And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.") I wonder if teaching comes any simpler than this. We have heard this rule from our earliest days of learning. I am sure that we all had some basic understanding of it by the time we started school. We all relate to hurt feelings caused by willful or thoughtless words and deeds of other people. We therefore ought to be aware of our ability to similarly inflict this kind of pain on other people, although I am sure that we are all far more sensitive to our own pain than that of others. It is important to note that Jesus does not say wait to see how others treat you and then decide if you will treat them well. The respect granted to another person is unconditional and unqualified. Some may say that respect must be earned. This thought implies that if the other person does not meet our expectations then we have the right to deny them respect. Jesus, however, does not say to withhold respect. "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you" (Matt 5:44). Respect for other people can also be defined using the word esteem. Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians "Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 2:2-5). I am sure that we all agree and say 'amen' to this teaching. But let's look at two rather common circumstances where we can see that actual practice may not measure up with this teaching. Our society is sports crazed. Highly skilled athletes are adored, perhaps even worshipped today. The ability to hit a baseball, catch a football or shoot a hockey puck is prized far beyond any semblance of reason. Clearly this kind of hero worship that exists in the world has no place in the life of a believer. Beyond this concern of near idol worship, however, is a more subtle concern. Believers, especially young believers, need to be careful that we do not regard athletic skills so highly that we begin to choose our friends and the people that we choose to associate with on the basis of their athletic ability. It is natural that people with common interests, such as sports, tend to attract each other and there is nothing inherently wrong with this. The danger is in exclusivity. If the primary qualification for being a friend or accepting a friend is that he or she be a good basketball player, then there is reason for concern. We need to be careful that we do not build barriers to freedom between believers on the basis of athletic prowess. One other area of potential concern in the area of respect for people came to light from some of our youth camps. Some children, maybe ten to twelve year olds, have come home from camp telling their parents that they do not wish to go to camp anymore because of the way they were treated. Teasing, perhaps hazing, being excluded from certain "in" groups, belittled for saying they did not want to be part of inappropriate behavior and so forth, led to a generally unhappy camp experience. It certainly is possible that in some cases, the offended child was "too sensitive," but the reports were frequent enough and wide-spread enough that it raised the level of concern by camp directors and others in position of responsibility for the camps. Why bring this up to this group at this time`? This audience is well beyond the elementary or middle school grades. I bring it up simply for this reason that many of us come from large families and many of us have younger siblings at home. Even if we don't, it remains true that younger children look up to teenagers and young adults, perhaps even more than they look up to their parents. Younger ones imitate the behavior of the older ones. The way you treat your peers, the degree to which you show proper respect or inappropriate behavior, is often the way younger ones think is "cool." Your behavior becomes the model for the younger ones in the congregation. Jesus taught that we treat others as we want to be treated, not as they treat us. We do not have the right to see how well another treats us before we decide how well we will treat them. The respect, the esteem with which we regard our fellow man is unconditional, unqualified. We do not have the right to withhold respect because someone treats us poorly. Conclusion We can ask, why is it important to be respectful to God, His word, His church and to our fellow created beings? A young lawyer once approached Jesus and asked "which is the great commandment?" Jesus responded "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind ... And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Then he went on to add, "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" (Matt 22:36-40). That is to say, on these commandments hang all of God's word. Love God above all things and love thy neighbor as thyself. The respect we show for God and for our fellow man follows directly from the love with which we carry them.

Tomm Stewart | 2000 LLC Minneapolis Summer Services - Youth Discussion - July 1 -- “Love not the world nor the things that are in the world, if any man love the world, the love of the father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father but is of the world.” 1 John 2:15 The Contrast of the Kingdom of God and the World The Bible makes a very clear distinction between a person whose life is worldly and one whose is godly. The fruits of faith are very different from the fruits of unbelief. A person's life is either one that follows the way of unbelief; the flesh, the world, or false righteousness, or it follows the way of faith; the Holy Spirit, the kingdom of God, and righteousness in Christ Jesus. The Bible makes another very clear distinction between these two ways “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matt. 7:13,14. The Bible also makes yet another very clear distinction one contrasting those who hear God's word and do it and those who hear it and do it not. In the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks of the wise and foolish builders, one built on a rock, the other on sand, and the stability of their respective houses is well known. The time in which we live amplifies the great contrasts presented in God's word. There are today, the same clear distinctions between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of this world that the Bible so vividly portrays. We live in a time of intense worldliness, trials, and temptations, “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of time, no, nor shall ever be. And except those days should be shortened, there should be no flesh saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.” Matt. 24:21,22. Life for every one of us includes temptation, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” 1 Pet. 4:12. Giving in to temptation is sin, “then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:15. Faithful Christian living, in other words, living according to the word of God, promises everlasting life but living in sin brings destruction and death. “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom. 6:22,23. Believers don't live in sin but attempt to live their lives holding faith and a good conscience. God's word gives clear instruction and advice on how we should live and behave, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared unto all men. Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live righteously, and godly, in this present world.” Titus 2:11,12. We are in the world but not of the world. This has two parts; as Christians, we need to interact with others, including unbelievers. We should extend friendship, participate in society, and do our part as citizens and neighbors. We are the light of the world, how can we be a light if we seclude ourselves? We have an obligation and a responsibility to contribute positively to our society. But, we do not join in the sin and evil or false spiritualities of the world. What I have mentioned so far, in consideration of the current conditions in which we live and because of the love of the Holy Spirit for undying souls, prompts us to speak very openly and frankly about the dangers of our time, particularly the love of the world. Sing SZ 121 v. 5,6 Love of the World Reveals Itself in Many Ways. Love of the world is born of a lack of sobriety in personal faith and a permissiveness or leniency toward sin. In this condition, one loses the fear of sin and may actually seek it out. The soberness of faith and its significance and importance are lost and one becomes not only numb to sin but accustomed to it. The priority of life, either secretly or openly, is no longer to put sin away and follow the bloody footsteps of the Lord Jesus but rather, to follow the flesh and to find ways to satisfy its insatiable lusts and desires. Perhaps instead of listening to the comforting, peaceful words and music of the songs of Zion, or maybe relaxing to some respectable and ennobling classical music, the heart and ear may strain to the booming beat of rock or pop, or to the melancholy moans of country. The wayward soul, no longer content in the light and love of Jesus, may even sink to the depths of dark, violent, and sinister music of doom, sex, drugs, homicide, suicide, and even Satan! The sin of worldly music has drawn more than one former believer into the world, driving away the Holy Spirit and the hope of eternal life, in the process. Our present culture has bred a hedonistic or pleasure-seeking society. The standard of living is high, disposable income is high, and the imagination of man has a huge playground. Sensuality and ways of exciting and pleasing the flesh have sunk to almost unbelievable depths of filth and corruption. In our society there exists an unbridled fascination with sex and sexuality. Age honored attitudes in which marriage was understood to be the correct and appropriate institution for a sexual relationship have yielded to utter immorality in the guise of personal freedom and individual choice. As believers, we must be quite straightforward and frank in our discussions when we consider this matter. Fornication, which is sexual relations before marriage, and adultery, which is sexual relations outside of marriage, are sin! along with all the fleshly acts associated with them. It is important that we not be deceived into permissiveness and leniency, “make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.” Rom. 13:14. Believing courtship should not take on the manner, behavior, or even communication of this world. Believing courtships are beautiful and godly, and should be considered and spoken of as such. For example, worldly references like sexy lady, hot body, and that sort of nonsense, are of the flesh, worldly, offensive, lacking in Christian sobriety, and should be avoided. I also want to touch on the dynamics of male/female relationships. We see in society a strong emergence of provocative feminine aggressiveness in relationships. When this manifests itself in God's kingdom, it causes unrest due to its conflict with God's established order for such relationships, “for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.” Although misunderstood by the world, this is not oppressive or demeaning in the least, but rather relates how in admiration, love, mutual honor and respect, a man cares for and cherishes the woman of his life. We have sometimes, with alarm, seen distasteful, physically provocative, and unwholesome aggressiveness of Christian young women towards courtship and have seen the same from young men. Crass and vulgar attitudes and comments have no place in Christianity. It is good for young people to be sober, polite, and respectful towards one another, “to have always a conscience void of offense toward God and toward men.” Acts 24:16. Hopefully, the natural and healthy timidity and shyness in approaching the opposite sex will prevail. Sing SZ 120 v. 5 Another worldly custom which we have seen with increasing alarm appear among God's children is the young age at which children, yes children, begin to show more than a shy and distant attraction to one another. It is quite common for worldly kids to begin dating, to use the common term, as young teenagers. For them, it is simply to have a boy or girlfriend and often to satisfy the lusts of the flesh; the intention is far from finding a marriage partner. Even if someone that age, believer or not, would indicate future marriage intentions as the motivation for starting such a relationship, we know they are far too young, far too immature, far too irresponsible to even consider marriage even remotely realistically. They do not have the practical tools or experience, the emotional maturity, or psychological development—in other words, they are totally unprepared to deal with such a commitment and relationship. “To every thing there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Eccl 3:1. Courtship is a serious thing, it's not just dating, like in the world, as the apostle writes, “and be not conformed to this world.” Rom 12:2. Do not put yourself in the way of temptation, nor grieve your parents and the elders. It remains well understood among us that alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs are poisons to the body but even greater poisons to the undying soul. The seriousness of these sins cannot be overstated. Alcoholic and drug induced intoxications remove faith, and if one should die in that condition, the testimony would be sorrowful as only everlasting destruction awaits. Today's technology is awesome, yet it can be both a blessing and a curse. The child of God must rely on the Holy Spirit guided conscience when making decisions regarding the use of the internet and related media. We have before us, at the click of a mouse, both good and evil. Today's and tomorrow's technology can be our servant for good or our slave-master for evil. God's word has guided believers through all phases and developments in civilizations since the dawn of humanity. We truly marvel at its timeless relevance and application. “See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil; … therefore choose life.” Deut. 30:15,19. Dear young believers, make your choices and decisions according to God's word and good conscience. It is easy to imagine that we operate 'on-line' complete anonymity. However, God is quite technologically literate. We have always said that God sees and knows all things, now we say that His vision completely spans cyberspace, as well. May our visits to internet sites and our electronic communication, that which we cast our eyes upon and lend an ear to, be in harmony with good conscience and Christian values. “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers“ Eph. 4:29. As our introductory verse related, “the lust of the eyes...is not of the Father, but is of the world.” Sing SZ 114 v. 4,5 Being Our Brother's Keeper The enemy of souls can cause one to not only neglect the role of being his/her brother's keeper but can influence one to even lie and deceive in an effort to cover up the faults of another, thinking it to be a display of friendship. That is anything but friendly. It is akin to putting a filthy, smelly, bacteria-laced and maggot-ridden rag on a wound instead of a clean, sterile dressing and bandage. Improper cleansing and covering up does not help but harms. The result is pain and sickness. The attempt to cover up sin with sin results in spiritual sickness, sorrow, and pain, the which, if uncared for, could lead to death. Don’t cover up sins, yours or anyone else’s, lay aside every weight, and burden and the sin which doth so easily beset! Heb. 12:1 True cleansing happens through the blood of Christ. Our Source of Strength: the Gospel Love of the world in all its forms is sin, it is sickness which could lead to death. Let us battle against this and all sin through the power of the gospel, the forgiveness of sins in the name and blood of Jesus. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation, to every one that believeth. Rom. 1:16. Believe sins forgiven in the name and blood of Jesus! Sing SZ 119

Eric Jurmu | 2000 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening - February 25 -- Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. (Ps. 33:8) Fear the Lord Thy God Fear is defined as a human emotion caused by an expectation of evil or impending danger. This fear is realized at a very early age. A child for example, fears falling and learns ways to protect himself or herself from danger. Fright, also connected with fear, is defined, sudden and violent fear; terror. These emotions however are not the fear that the Bible speaks of. Biblical fear, or the fear of God, and the fear that is in human emotions are in direct contrast. The Fear of God is Not Fright Luther teaches; "Being afraid of God is different from fearing God. The fear of God is a fruit of love, but being afraid of Him is the seed of hatred. Therefore we should not be afraid of God but should fear Him so that we do not hate Him whom we should love. . . . Therefore the fear of God is more aptly called reverence. For example, we revere those whom we love, honor, esteem, and fear to offend." Also Luther, writing on the Fourth Commandment, says: "But honor is higher than mere love and includes a certain fear, which unites with love, and causes a man to fear offending them more than he fears the punishment. Just as there is fear in the honor we pay a sanctuary, and yet we do not flee from it as from a punishment, but draw near to it all the more. Such a fear mingled with love is the true honor; the other fear without any love is that which we have toward things which we despise or flee from, as we fear the hangman or punishment. There is no honor in that, for it is a fear without all love, nay, fear that has with it hatred and enmity. Of this we have a proverb of St. Jerome: What we fear, that we also hate. With such a fear God does not wish to be feared or honored, but with the first, which is mingled with love and confidence. Fear of the Lord is Wisdom "And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding." Job 28:28 Many places in scripture man is placed in direct comparison with God. Here we recognize our earthly limitations and stand in awe of him. Apostle Paul reminds us that, "The foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men." (1 Cor 1:25) The Prophet Isaiah compares man and God in this way, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Is. 55:8-9 In spite of this, we can, as Luther teaches in his explanation of the Lord's Prayer, approach God as children approach their dear parents. Solomon wrote, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Prov. 9:10 The Fruits of Holy Fear Through faith we comprehend the great measure of grace afforded us. We understand that God has given freely of his love. This constrains us to serve him. And this is also what God requires of us. It is written, "And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul." (Deut. 10:12) God wants us to serve him with an undivided heart, Jesus said that "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." (Matt. 6:24) The desire to serve and obey God is born of love that is kindled by the comprehension of God's grace and love for us. Jesus said "If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him." (John 14:23) The desire to serve God is made manifest in our lives. We serve Him in our words and deeds alike. God also teaches us to revere Him with outward signs of respect: "Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD." (Lev. 19:30) As a point of illustration, we might look at the life of Moses when he was called by God to lead the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt. God, remembering the oppression of the Children of Israel, manifested himself to Moses in the wilderness as a fire burning within a bush, yet not consuming it. Intrigued by this phenomenon, Moses edged closer and was startled to hear his name called out. But the speaker, God, warned him to take off his sandals, for the very ground on which he was standing was holy. It was an act of reverence, required by God, following an ancient custom practiced whenever one entered a holy place. (Exo. 3:5) Joshua also felt the presence of God as did Moses and Abraham. "And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant? And the captain of the LORD's host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so." (Jos. 5:13–15) Today, God's children also want to revere and serve the Lord as the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews relates, "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." (Heb 12:28). And as the Psalmist writes "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him." (Ps 89:70) How Do We Serve God? A child of God hungers for the word of God for it nourishes and strengthens. And the sole purpose of going to services is to be nourished and fed. In making preparations for services many things come into consideration. Here it would be good to remember the speakers in prayer, and that God's will would be revealed through them. God gives the office of the ministry a high order, Paul writes "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. (1 Tim 5:17) We need comfort and guidance on our journey to heaven. It is also out of respect for God's word we would be seated and settled before the opening song. It can be very distracting to the other service guests, when long after the song starts people continue to stream into the church. Also, the opening song is often a prayer that God would open his word, and bless the services. The congregation joins in this prayer. Another matter one might consider is where he/she sits at services. Am I in the hearing of God's word? It may be a habit for some to remain outside, or in areas that our friends may be. In such situations one becomes easily distracted. It can also become distracting to the other service guests. And lastly we will consider, appropriate dress and appearance for services. Too often our dress and styles of dress become our first concern. First of all, what is appropriate dress? And why does it require consideration? Is, for example, beach attire (like shorts and and tank tops) appropriate for services? I could comment on other specific styles of dress, and what might or might not be appropriate service attire, but perhaps it could be a point of discussion for the congregation. I believe our dress does in some way mirror/reflect the content of a person’s heart. It is according to God's word that our dress would be to the honor and glory of God. Another matter I might mention, and the elders would have even more experience than I, is how the levels of respect in society have changed over the years. To what degree, however, is open for discussion. As one example, however small, is the wearing of hats. As a young boy I remember many times being reminded to take off my hat as I entered a public building. Now it is common that hats are worn in buildings, and also in homes. This is not a great matter, however it illustrates how things have changed. Many of these kinds of customs have disappeared, and have been replaced by a set of standards that are much more relaxed. This has affected the society in which we live, and in turn touched the lives of the believers. Also studies have shown a direct link between dress and attitude. Many articles have been written recently addressing the decline in American dress codes, or standards, seemingly becoming too relaxed. This has led to a decline in many areas of concern. Studies have shown a direct link, for example, to gang activity and dress. A recent study in California revealed a big drop off in violent activity when the school adopted a dress code. For this reason many schools have adopted a dress code for students, and many others are watching closely to see the results. In these outward ways we show our respect to the Heavenly Father. With the changing times that we live, the child of God needs to remain watchful, Jesus in his time admonished "And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch." (Mk. 13:37) This remains wholesome instruction yet today. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." (Heb 10:25) The Blessings Of Fearing God The blessings of God are innumerable to those that love Him. Think how fortunate we are when the mysteries of God's kingdom and the secret of salvation are revealed to those that fear Him. The Psalmist writes, "The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant." (Ps. 25:14) Thus the child of God can serve God with a joyful heart, for God promises to honor those that honor Him. "Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honor me I will honor, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed." (1 Sam 2:30) And "The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy." (Ps 147:11) O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever! (Deut 5:29)

Elmer Alajoki | 1995 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening - February 24 -- In the Holy Word of God there is much written of the obedience to God's Holy word, obedience in the life of faith. The Gospel Changes Man When man believes the gospel of the forgiveness of sins, a change of heart takes place in his life. It is evident in his life and speech. Living faith influences life which desires to serve the Lord in doctrine, life and suffering. To that person the kingdom of God becomes dear and precious, a fellowship of dear brothers and sisters. It is a "golden candlestick" in whose midst the Lord Jesus travels among His own children. Righteousness of Faith The Apostle Paul writes to the Romans "Therefore being justified by faith (made righteous), we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Rom. 5:1). Righteousness of faith, living faith and obedience are inseparable from one another. Living faith brings forth fruits of the righteousness of life. The Apostle Peter writes, "As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in ignorance, but as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation." (1 Peter 1:14-15). Grace Teaches The grace of God teaches to forsake and shun all ungodly life. The Apostle Paul writes to Titus: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world." (Titus 2:11-12). Holy Spirit Home Teacher The Holy Spirit teaches and instructs as a home teacher unto obedience to the will of God. It is very important in the life of faith that at home parents discuss with their children and young the questions and answers in regard to the foundation of faith. Study the teachings of the word of God in the light of the Spirit to know that is the good and acceptable will of the Lord. Gospel the Power of God From the gospel of the forgiveness of our sins we receive power to follow in faith the gracious teacher the Lord Jesus in His kingdom and to fight against the enemy of the souls, against our sin-corrupted flesh and the world. The Apostle Paul writes: "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Tim. 2:22). He also writes: "Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience." (1 Tim. 3:9). A Light to the World Dear brothers and sisters, we are a little light and a candle in the midst of the world. The fire of the Holy Spirit has warmed our hearts to burn in the love of God. We have wanted to confess to the unbelievers that are around us what great grace and gift we have received from the Lord Jesus. We have wanted to call them to the services of God's children, show them the way into this kingdom of life and salvation. We show godly love to them with merciful and pardoning minds of Christ who has first loved us. Obedience to the Servants in the Church God has chosen in the church ministers, board members and teachers. The Apostle Paul writes: "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit dividing to every man severally as he will." (1 Cor. 12:27, 18, 28, 11). It is very important for all of us to show obedience, respect and honor to the servants that God has chosen to serve in the administration of the house and church of God. The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, "that thou mayest know how thou aughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth." (1 Tim. 3:15). In the letter to the Hebrews is also written, "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. Pray for us for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly." (Heb. 13:17-18). If someone in the living church of God rises against the teachings, instruction and decisions of the Holy Spirit that God has spoken in the church through the mouths of His children, then that person has fallen into disobedience in his life of faith to the word and spirit of God. The Lord Jesus said to the seven churches in Asia, "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29). Disobedience to the living church of God causes one to eventually fall away from the love of Christ, and from His kingdom, from the fellowship and love of the children of God. Obedience in Faith Abraham by faith was obedient when he was tried, called of God to leave his father's house and kin. Abraham was also obedient when he offered up his Isaac. Jacob obeyed the voice of Rebecca his mother and received the father's blessing. Jacob also obeyed his parents in not taking for his wife the unbelieving daughters of Canaan. King David hearkened to Prophet Nathan when he rebuked David of his fall to sin. David humbled himself and repented of his sins and received forgiveness from the prophet. Obedience and Care of the Young Today in the kingdom we have many many young; it is a great blessing in the church to have you young boys and girls preciously believing. You are the joy of your parents and the older Christians in the congregation of God. Today in the midst of the unbelieving world you young experience how the enemy of the souls, "the devil, as roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." (1 Peter 5:8). It is an every day battle to keep faith and a good conscience before God and men. Many times in battle you are tired, wearied, and even fall into "sin which doth so easily beset you." In the church of God you need much loving care and guidance in your weak faith, "hands that hang down" need strengthening, you need to be encouraged to lift up your eyes of faith to Jesus. (Heb. 12:12). It is written: "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." And, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29). In Zion there are open fountains against all sin and defilement. Always be free to come with your sin-burdened conscience to a brother or sister. Open your mouth to speak of that which burdens you and hear for them the forgiveness of your sins in the name and blood of Jesus. God's kingdom is "righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost." Every day we need the grace of God to lead and teach us on the way of living faith. But we have a patient and loving teacher, the Lord Jesus. He is always revealing for us the victory of Golgotha, the price He has paid for redeeming us from our sins. His love for us is unmeasurable and unending. Concerns of Today Some areas of concern that are lurking around us today include videos played on TV screens, drugs in school, use of alcohol, going to theaters and participating in competitive sports after school. Our sincere prayer is that our dear Heavenly Father would protect all His children, young and old, from falling into the love of the world, from its many ways of sins. Dear Lord, give us sober and vigilant minds to resist the enemy of our souls. Keep us steadfast in faith, considering "one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is: but exhorting one another and so much the more as ye see the day approaching." (Heb. 10:24-25). Discussion Topics Some of the topics discussed at the speakers meeting in Finland included: 1. Let the voice of the Good Shepherd be heard in our sermons, having forgiving hearts to those fallen into sin. 2. Living faith brings forth fruits to righteousness of life. 3. The grace of God teaches to shun all ungodly life. The Holy Spirit as a home teacher instructs to obedience in life. 4. In the world they express: Everyone with his own faith is saved; it does not matter how one believes and what he believes. 5. God prepared righteousness in Jesus; this is that joyous gospel. Christ sent his own to preach. 6. Keep faith in a good conscience - be obedient to instruction of the Holy Spirit. 7. Servants of the word are the mouths of the Holy Spirit. 8. The importance of home teaching to the young 9. The young need support and love. 10. Faith is a joyous matter 11. The greeting of God's Peace already strengthens faith. 12. It is good for the speakers to see the picture that today's world portrays. 13. The carnal mind desires to govern areas that pertain to faith and the Word of God. 13. The enemy of the soul desires to break the love among Christians even with temporal matters. The young can stray away in their lawfulness; parents can fall into being overly strict, unforgiving. 14. It is necessary for us to acknowledge what the word of Christ means to me personally. Christ is gracious and merciful so that of His grace I can once go to the joy of heaven.

Quentin Ruonavaara | 2000 LLC Minneapolis Summer Services - Speakers and Elders Meeting - July 1 -- 1. Call to Serve These are the words of the Prophet Isaiah. They consist of two separate parts. The first is, "here am I," and the second is, "send me." He said these words in response to the enquiry of God, " Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" Isaiah had just received the grace of repentance. As a young man he had lived, as many of his contemporaries, in a life of sin. He attended the services in the temple of the Lord, and there his conscience became awakened. "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts," he said. He, like all who have tasted how gracious God is, experienced that love for sinners which is comprehended through the gospel of the forgiveness of sins. It is written in II Cor. 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Isaiah became a new man. The direct fruit of this experience was a willingness to share it with his friends and neighbors. 2. Here Am I Isaiah's apparent willingness to enter into God's service contrasts with that of both Moses and Jeremiah. God called Moses from a within a burning bush. Moses, like Isaiah, responded, "Here am I." The circumstance, however, was different. Moses was raised as a prince while he lived his childhood in Egypt. Of him it is written, "By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward" (Heb. 11: 24 - 26). A mission was already prepared for him, namely, to lead God's people out of slavery. It appears, however, that Moses was not as eager to go as Isaiah. He used many excuses to fight against this mission. We, like him, are very reluctant to approach those who are still in the bondage of sin. We would want someone else to do it. But God responded to Moses' objection of being a slow speaker with the answer, " Who hath made man's mouth? Now therefore go, and I will be thy mouth and teach thee what thou shalt say " (Exod. 4:10–12). Similarly, Jeremiah hesitated to obey the call to service. He agonized over his insufficiency to comply with the requirements of the service as he saw it. This is a common trait of those whom the congregation places into any position of service. But whatever the office, the scriptural words in II Cor. 3: 5 and 6, apply, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." We believers are more often like Moses and Jeremiah, if and when approached by the congregation to enter into God's work. Three examples of former saints have been presented. What lesson is to be found in these examples? We are encouraged to believe as we find ourselves. Likewise we are encouraged to serve with the gifts and measure of faith given to us. Whether willing or reluctant, these men were obedient and faithful until the end of their lives. They had faithfully served with the gift allotted them by God. Another example is the Apostle Peter, who while in a Roman prison awaiting execution, demonstrated his faithfulness to his calling, writing, "Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me" (II Pet. 1:13,14). In one sense, Isaiah's calling was different than ours. He received a direct call, as I believe Luther calls it, to be God's prophet. He had a sincere desire to share this joy with his past friends, and his fellow countrymen. While he had participated with them in the pleasures of the flesh, he now hoped that they, like he, would see the error of their ways. Isaiah's desire was a good fruit of living faith. 3. Be Ready Always to Give an Answer These words are found in I Peter 3: 15: "But sanctify the lord God in your hearts: and be always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." The confession of faith is centermost to revealing this hope which is in us to outsiders. This confession occurs in two ways: by our manner of life and with our mouths. Our manner of life, our demeanor, our speech patterns, and our dress, works powerfully to attract the attention of those who are seeking. It is fitting to repeat what is written in Col. 3:1, - 3, "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ. " We read from II Cor. 3:2, "Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men." This was the situation with young Joseph, when he was transplanted into Egypt. He provides an excellent role model to all. He was read and known of all men in his new environment. We read in Genesis 39:3, "And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand." Because of this, Joseph was placed into a position of trust. Joseph was ready to give an answer when he was confronted with temptation by Potipher's wife and confessed his faith in word and deed. Enticed by her to commit adultery, he answered, " How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). It is important that we confess our faith with our mouth as well. God’s Word teaches and encourages us to do so. In Romans 10:10 is written, "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. Another quotation from II Tim. 4:2 is applicable to the mission field where all believers are engaged in their place of watching. This reads, "Preach the word: be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." The intent of all these scriptural admonitions is to encourage us to fulfill the mission command of Jesus, which is, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you" (Matt. 28:19, 20). 4. Opportunities in Daily Life Two recent incidents illustrate the way that the message of the gospel is spread through the confession of individual believers. In the first, a young man who had been seeking for salvation for five years, had made his acquaintance with two believing girls. As I have heard it, this man had a lingering question: "Where can I find Jesus? Where is He?" Servants of God, as these girls were, can never know the circumstance in which he or she may be called upon to help a seeking soul find Jesus. They had, during their normal conversion with him, mentioned their intention of traveling to the winter services in Florida. They invited him. He came there. There he found a good and gracious God. He received the grace of repentance. Those who witnessed this scene have described the joy of the finder which was evident in the young man. Most of us have heard of the second example, which has resulted in the birth of a small flock of believers in Ecuador. This, too, began from an incident which involved a few believing girls who were able to, by their fruits of faith, reveal to a young man the living hope within them. The net result was that this young man was converted, later become engaged to and married a believer, and through his efforts introduced the servants of Jesus to many of his family and neighbors in his native land. Many there received the gospel in the same manner as the Thessalonians, of whom Paul writes: "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe"(I Thess. 2:13). 5. Not With Excellency of Speech Continuing this thought of communicating such noble and holy matters to unbelievers, it is uplifting and instructive to consider Moses' self-evaluation, when he was called. In Exodus 4:10–16 is written, " And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or death, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach what thou shalt say. And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him, whom thou wilt send. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and he saith, is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee, and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do." Likewise Jeremiah received an answer from God when he resisted the calling. We read of this from Jeremiah 1: 6–9: "Then said I, Ah, Lord God' behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth." These admissions of lacking in speech are in accord with the words of Paul, who wrote these words; " And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God " (I Cor. 2:1–5). An encouraging example for us who often feel too inadequate to confess our faith is found in John chapter 9. There we hear how Jesus healed a man who had been blind from birth. The Pharisees, seeking to discredit Jesus because He had healed on the sabbath, questioned this man as to the manner of his healing. This man had not yet comprehended the doctrine of living faith, as his answer reveals, but it contains his simple and powerful confession of what Jesus had done for him. He said, “Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25). 6. The Gospel of God's Kingdom It is of vital importance to understand that salvation can only come about by the PROCLAMATION of God's children, who have been sent to preach this gospel. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 10:13, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Then Paul asks, " How then shall they call upon him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent?" Paul answers this question, by quoting Isaiah, his representative and teacher in this matter. In Isaiah 52:7 is written, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!" To all this, the Apostle concludes, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). The feet of those who preach the gospel are highlighted in these references of Paul to the Romans, in paraphrasing Isaiah. This order of grace has been preserved from Isaiah's time to ours. 7. Conclusion "And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein" (Isa. 35:8). So clearly spake the Prophet Isaiah concerning this way. Yet, so few there are who find it. Preachers of every age have known disappointment. Isaiah had to lament, following some years of tenure in this work, "Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?" (Isaiah 53:1). The Apostle Paul concluded, “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (II Cor. 4; 3,4). We hope that those on the outside of God’s kingdom would receive the gospel with faith. It is our prayer that we would all have the heart of Isaiah to accomplish the will of God. Jesus acknowledged how great is the work before us. He said, "The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest” (Matt. 9:37–38).

John Lehtola | 1999 LLC Detroit Summer Services - Youth Discussion - July 3 -- Introduction Today we live in a society that emphasizes individualism: man is all-mighty, all-knowing and in control ozone’s own fate. The statement is often heard: My God is like this. I think of God in this way. The Bible says of the last times that the end will not come before a falling away takes place and the man of sin is revealed. Man opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped. He wishes to sit in the temple of God as if he is God (2 Thes. 2:3-4). The New Age movement creates a god according to their own liking. Individuals can establish their own measuring stick of truth. They also say that truth is a subjective matter. The Bible, however, defines truth. Jesus said of himself: “I am the way, the truth, and life.” Hidden God God cannot be comprehended by reason or knowledge. What do we know about God? The Scriptures declare that God in incomprehensible (see Job 11:7; 21:14; 36:26; Ps. 77:19; Rm. 11:33). Complete knowledge of God is not attainable by man upon earth. Whatever man knows of God, he knows through God's own revelation of Himself either in the realm of nature or in His holy word. Had God not revealed Himself, man never would have known him, since God is a spirit, who dwells “in the light which no man can approach unto” (1 Tim. 6:16). No man has ever seen God and lived (Ex. 33:20; Job. 1:18). God reveals himself through nature, through phases of history, and in fates of life and sicknesses. These are known as general revelation. Atheism is a school of thought which denies the existence of God. The Bible says, however: “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’ ” (Ps. 14:1). During the end of the last century atheism became a common phenomenon in Europe, especially among the highly educated people. A certain scholar went to Lapland to study nature. He unknowingly got a believing young Lapp boy as his guide. Together they slept by a fire in a Lappish teepee. The researcher noticed something different about this boy. Even though it was cold in winter Lapland, the boy never drank alcohol to warm his body. In spite of the many obstacles on the journey, the guide never cursed or swore. And every evening the boy prayed before going to bed at night. The researcher began to tease the boy: “Why do you pray to God," he asked. “Have you seen God or perhaps touched Him?" “No,” the boy replied. The scientist laughed and said: “There is no such thing that cannot be seen or touched.” Early the next morning the scientist woke up to go outside. It was still dark and the northern lights were dancing across the sky. He quickly returned to the tent and woke his guide. “A wolf circled our tent last night,” the scientist said. “How do you know?” the guide replied. “Did you see it or touch it?” he added. “No,” said the scientist, “but I surely know wolf tracks when I see them.” “There couldn't have been anything if you didn't see it or touch it,” the guide continued. Together they stepped outside and examined the tracks. Wolf tracks they were. “Do you know what these tracks tell us,” the guide stated? “Of course,” said the scientist, “a wolf circled the tent last night.” The guide then added: “And we can be sure of that on the basis of these tracks.” “Look at the beautiful northern lights dancing across the sky,” said the guide. “And examine the silhouette of the fells against the dark sky. See how harmonious the Lappish winter nature is. These are all the fingerprints and handiwork of my God. I know my God by his fingerprints. And the longing in my heart testifies that my God has made all of this. God exists. God is near me. Even here in the middle of the Lappish fells I can approach my God and speak to Him in prayer,” said the guide to the scientist. The Psalmist writes in Ps. 19: The heavens declare the glory of God; The skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. The Bible states in the Old Testament that God is as high as heaven is above the earth, and as far as the east is from the west (Ps. 103:11,12). So much higher are God's thoughts from ours. St. Augustine illustrated this idea when someone asked him what God is like. At that time he was standing on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Augustine stooped down and dug a small hole in the sand. “If you are able to put all of the water of the ocean into that hole,” Augustine explained, “I will be able to tell you what God is like.” Augustine scooped some water and put it into the small hole in the sand. Together they noticed that the level of the ocean didn't move. So small are the abilities of man (another application: To understand the triune God is as difficult as the little boy trying to drain the sea into the hole), Triune God God is a triune God. God the Father and Creator; God the Son and Redeemer, and God the Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier. This is difficult to comprehend, for in mathematics we learn that one plus one plus one is three. Yet, in this case, even though there are three godheads, there is only one God. Paul writes to the Corinthians: “For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth (as there be gods many, and lords many.) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him” (1 Cor. 8: 5-6). God creates and maintains the world. The first article of the creed states: “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.” Luther writes an explanation for this in the small catechism: “I believe that God has made me and all other creatures; that He has given and still preserves to me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses; and that He daily provides me with food and clothing, home and house . . . and all that I need for this body and life. . .” When God performed His creation work, he concluded each day by saying: It is good! God allows handicaps and disabilities, and they serve a purpose, which is many times unknown to us (cf. Job. 9:1-4). A group of people were on a field trip to an institution for the handicapped. One individual said to a believer that she does not believe that God exists. “How can there be a God, called a God of love, when there is so much sickness and suffering in the world? This entire world and its fates are in man's hands.” The group entered that part of the institution where the most severely handicapped were located. A believing nurse happened to work in this ward. There was one child without eyes. Other children were without hands. They only had wing-like structures which flapped in the place of arms. Some children were only a lump of flesh that were fed with tubes and cared for. The group of people listened as the nurse explained. All these children are God’s creation. They accomplish a unique task here on earth. Every one of these children understands a certain matter — that they are loved, and they respond to love in their own personal way. The atheist teacher who just earlier said there is no God, began to cry and say: “I retract all that I said. Look! I have two eyes. I have two ears. I can move and walk. But I am continually dissatisfied and bitter. Now I do believe that God exists." God hates sin, but loves the sinner. God gave his son to die for the sins of the world. God sent his son to redeem mankind. The second article of the creed states: “I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, Our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into hell; the third day rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.” Luther explains this in the explanation to the second article of the creed: “I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord; who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with gold or silver, but with His holy and precious blood, and with His innocent sufferings and death.” Why? “In order that I might be his own, live under Him in His kingdom, and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence and blessedness. . .” The work of God continues as the work of the Holy Spirit in His congregation. The keys of the kingdom have been left in God’s congregation, with the believers. Whose sins are forgiven here on earth are forgiven also in heaven. Forgiveness is possible only through the power of the Holy Ghost The Holy Ghost sanctifies, gives new birth, and forgives sins, using the mouth of believers. The Holy Ghost gives everlasting life to the soul of man, who believes. The Holy Ghost joins all believers together through bonds of love. Nature or Characteristics Of God Two names of God in the Hebrew Scriptures are Elohim and Jehovah. The latter means “He who is,” as we recall from the reply to Moses at the burning bush (Ex. 3). These terms together with other names emphasize certain attributes of the Godhead, such variations being rendered in our English version, “God Almighty,” “The Living God,” “The Most High,” “The Lord,” or “The God of Hosts.” The English word is identical with the Anglo-Saxon word for “good,” and therefore it is believed that the name God refers to the divine goodness. Luther writes: “It is God alone from whom we receive all good and by whom we are delivered from all evil. Ancient Germans utilized the name ‘God,’ derived from the word ‘good,’ because he is an eternal fountain which gushes forth nothing but the good, and from which flows all that is good and is so called.” There are many metaphors for God in the Bible: shield, rock, fortress, protection, refuge and strength (see Ps. 46 and hymn 201). God is also known as king, shepherd and Father, especially our heavenly Father (see Mt. 6: 26-32). God is a spirit, who is eternal. He is the first and last. He is all-knowing, all-seeing, and everywhere. God is all-mighty, righteous, holy, and not to be ridiculed. What happens when the fear of God is lost? “I am the Lord thy God, thou shall have no other gods before me,” we recite in the catechism. Luther explains: “We should fear, love and trust in God above all things.” In the Large Catechism Luther writes: “See to it that you let me alone be your God, and never seek another.” We can see clearly what has happened in our society when the fear of God and sin is lost. In the 60's such things as divorce, abortion, cohabitation we considered very shameful and evil vices by the society in general. Today such acts are done openly and without shame. If a person loses the fear of God and the fear of sin, morals will degrade and erode. This is a danger for a believer as well. Joseph had the correct fear or reverence for God when tempted by the Potiphar's wife. He said: how could I do such an evil thing against my God.” The Bible states: “The wages of sin is death" (Rm. 6:23). “If you live after the flesh, you shall die: but if you through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, you shall live” (Rm. 8:13). A God Of Providence God is not only the creator of the world and mankind, but he also maintains and cares for it. We can also see how God cared for the people of Israel during the wilderness journey and Joseph in Egypt ( see also: Ps. 8:5; 23:1; Mt. 6:25). Is it only God’s blessing when one is successful? One may think that as a believer everything should always go well. The Psalmist struggled with this question in Ps. 73. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men. Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment. . . They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily . . . And they say. How doth God know? And is there knowledge in the most High? Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. The disciples perhaps thought they would be spared from difficult times because they were followers of Christ. But Jesus explained differently to them as he was sending them out on mission journeys (Mt 10:16-30). Even though God allows trials, such as the examples in Job’s life, his children are yet not forgotten (Rm. 8: 28). God wishes to reveal the preciousness of faith through them (1 Peter 1: 6,7; 1 Peter 4: 12, 13). To Job God said of Satan: he will come so far and no further. And here shall your proud waves be halted (Job 38:11). The nation of Finland suffered greatly during World War II against great odds in the battle against the Soviet Union. Though they suffered many losses. God spared the country for the sake of the elect. God is omniscient (all-knowing). Not one hair will fall from our head without his knowledge. He protects and keeps us on the palm of His hand, and will not allow us to be swept off. The Psalmist was comforted when he was asked to go into the temple, and heard: “Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shall guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: but thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works" (Ps. 73: 23-28). Conclusion Our joy is to be near God. Our strength is in the gospel (Rm. 1: 16). God’s ways are not our ways (Rm. 11:33-34). God is great, but we are small. No one can comprehend His majesty. For now we partially understand and see as if through a foggy window. But soon we will be able to see Him in fullness (1 Cor. 13: 12). Discussion Questions 1. What happens when the fear of God and sin disappears? 2. Trials in life — A person experiencing difficult trials may question — Why? Has God forgotten me? Am I even a believer? 3. What do handicap children teach us? What does God wish to communicate through them? 4. The dangers of reason and the struggles of reason with our faith life. What are the dangers and blessing of education? 5. Psalms 73: Inequalities of life – ungodly proper / tribulations of the believers.

Lawrence Byman | 1997 LLC Cokato Summer Services - Youth Discussion - July 5 -- "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life..." 1 Tim. 6:12 These words are especially fitting for tonight's discussion, as they were written by Paul to a young believing person named Timothy. Paul also writes to Timothy about the last days saying, "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." 2 Tim. 3:1. He goes on to describe conditions which paint a familiar picture when we consider the time in which we live. "For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." 2 Tim 3:2-7 This is a sobering and somewhat frightening picture. Questions which can come to mind are: "How can I stand against such evil?" "Will I have strength to fight the good fight when tempted?" "Does God remember me in temptation?" and so on. These are not unnatural questions. We all feel the weakness of our flesh and the lusts which arise from within. However, there is no better place to be, when faced with such evil and temptations, than in the household of the living God as His child. Here we find comfort, support and encouragement in fighting "the good fight of faith." Our ability to battle against the evils of the world, Satan and our own flesh comes not of ourselves, but through faith. In the letter to the Hebrews, chapter 11, the writer relates of many former saints who overcame severe adversity and trials by faith. They believed the promises of God, denied themselves, took up the cross and followed Christ in life, suffering and doctrine. Simply put, they fought the good fight of faith, desiring "a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city." Heb. 11: 16 In other words, they wanted to "lay hold on eternal life." So also do we. In this battle God does not forget us. He has provided us with unique armour. This armour can not be seen with the natural eyes and yet it protects us from the evil which surrounds us! Paul writes of it in this way: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities. Against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:" Eph. 6:10-17 Let's examine these pieces of armour and what they mean to the child of God. We will borrow thoughts from an article written by Einari Lepisto in I Write to You volume 1. First, "having your loins girt about with truth." The loins of the mind are to be girded with truth. Because of this, the child of God can not be hypocritical, leaning towards the opinions of this world. Rather, we stand straight and truthful in faith, endeavoring to keep a good conscience. There is no room to be deceitful. Next, "having on the breastplate of righteousness." We are righteous through faith. Therefore, this breastplate is also pictured in "the shield of faith." With this shield we can deflect the fiery darts of the wicked. We can not lay down the armour of war for even a moment, but through faith battle at all times against sin and temptations. King David is an example of what happens when the weapons of warfare are set aside. When he did not go to war with his soldiers he fell first into adultery and then into murder. Even though we are clothed in battle armour, we still go forward with a message of peace, having our "feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." This message of the gospel is heard even today from the kingdom of God. It resounds at these services. Here we have precious escorts, travel companions as they are so often called, from whom we can hear the words of life and forgiveness - the central message of the gospel. The gospel of which Paul writes, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." Rom. 1: 16 It is the power of God unto salvation for you beloved believing young people as well! Do not hesitate to use the gospel which is so freely offered to you. Dip from the open fountains which flow against sin in Zion. The "helmet of salvation" represents the correct understanding of how one becomes saved. The helmet is special. When God's Holy Spirit opens Christ's doctrine and the matters of salvation, it is the protection for the soldier' head. The enemy knows that the head is a tender part of the body. Wounds to this part easily kill the soldier. If the understanding of faith falls apart, then one begins to see the work of God in places where it is not. We children of God wear this protective helmet, of the correct understanding of salvation, on our heads. Finally, "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Jesus did battle with the enemy of souls during his temptation in the wilderness with the word of God. There is no other weapon as powerful as the word of God. For this reason we are encouraged by Christ himself to "hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches." Hear the word of God, learn it and believe it. Paul writes to Timothy of "the holy scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." 2 Tim. 3:15 Be encouraged, young friends, to believe even now the gospel, in the name and blood of Jesus all is forgiven! Your faith life can be refreshed and the weaponry of the Spirit sharpened on the cornerstone of Zion. "Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, 0 Jacob, and speakest, 0 Israel, My way is hid from the LORD, and my judgment is passed over from my God? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength." Is. 40:26-29 There is safety and security in the midst of the flock of God. We are uniquely cared for and watched over in the kingdom. Jesus says, "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? Be even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows." Luke 12:6-7 You young person, who may be doubting and struggling in faith, are also of great value to your heavenly Father. He has paid a great price for you through the suffering and death of His Son, Jesus Christ the righteous. As a young believer in God's Kingdom you own righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Do not be discouraged! Through the power of God, clothed in His armour, in the fellowship of the believers, you can "fight the good fight of faith" and "lay hold on eternal life!"

Don Lahti | 1997 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening - February 21 -- Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (Gal. 6:1, 2) 1. Introduction The above text from Paul’s Letter to the Galatians teaches us to help and care for one another on our journey of faith. The first part of the text teaches us to help a person who has fallen in sin and also in what manner we ought to help them. The second part of the text teaches us to share one another's burdens. 2. If a Man Be Overtaken in a Fault As children of God we wish to follow the Lord Jesus and preserve faith and a pure conscience. Nonetheless, we have experienced that while endeavoring to follow Jesus we often fall into sin. The devil has not left us unscathed. With his seemingly unlimited tricks, he has often wounded us and with the help of our corrupt flesh caused us to sin. And sin, because it is deceitful, may harden our heart and conscience (Heb. 3:13) and we may be “overtaken,” that is, caught or entangled in sin. The hardening of heart and conscience can begin with something that to one who has fallen may seem relatively small and innocent, for example, a little lie, the occasional use of make up, watching a ball game on television, listening to worldly music, watching unsuitable videos, or visiting offensive sites on the internet. Our conscience, if it is properly functioning, urges us to put sin away. But if we ignore these promptings, our conscience begins to harden. Little by little, we begin to permit sin in our lives and we become blinded to its dangers. If we continue to neglect the care of our conscience and let it become a harbor for sin, we will eventually suffer spiritual shipwreck. James says, “Sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” (James l:15). 3. Restore Such an One Paul instructs us to “restore” one entangled in sin. This process of restoring often involves two parts: rebuke and forgiveness. Rebuke is a necessary part of the gospel, but words of rebuke and instruction cannot in themselves remove sin or “restore” anyone. That occurs only through faith in Jesus Christ and His redemption work. As Paul writes to the Romans, “the just shall live by faith.” Generally, we find rebuking another person to be an unpleasant task and are often reluctant and timid to do so. A healthy timidity rises from the knowledge and understanding of our own poorness. But we must also acknowledge that there are other factors that may cause us to be timid and sometimes even negligent. For example, we may fear that we will start an argument, be rejected, lose a friend, or even make an enemy. Sometimes we may simply be lazy and indifferent. Such fears rise from our flesh and our darkened reason. God's Word, however, teaches us that when we ignore a brother’s sin we both hate him and share in his guilt (Lev. 19:17). Proverbs teach that “open rebuke is better than secret love” and that he that rebukes another will afterward be more favored than someone who has merely flattered him (Prov. 27:5; 28:23). In the so-called “church law of Christ” (Matt. 18:15-17), Jesus teaches that when our brother sins against us, we should discuss the matter with him alone, one on one. If our brother does not hear us, Jesus says to take “one or two more,” and if he still will not hear, Jesus says “tell it unto the church.” If the offending brother refuses to hear the church, then he is no longer to be regarded a brother in faith. Then the keys of binding are used (Matt. 16: l9; John 20:23). There are, of course, sins and faults that do not necessarily involve offense against another individual. If an individual, or even several individuals, become aware of such a matter, we understand that they should deal with the matter in as small a circle as possible. Some sins are open and public from the beginning, however. Such sins may be openly rebuked, as Paul wrote to Timothy: "Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear" (l Tim 5:20). 4. Forgive One Another As I noted, rebuke is but one part of “restoring” a fallen sinner. True restoration occurs when the gospel of absolution is preached and believed. God’s children form His royal priesthood; it is the office of the Holy Spirit. Peter writes, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people” (1 Pet. 2:9). Christ has given His disciples, His priests, the authority to forgive sins. When Jesus appeared to His disciples following His resurrection, He said: “Peace be unto you; as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: whosoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whososever sins ye retain, they are retained” (John 20:21-23). While, as God's children, we have the power to retain or bind, we do so reluctantly and with sorrow. At the same time, we understand that this too is founded upon love for the sin-fallen. On the other hand, we are eager to preach the gospel and remit sins, for it is precisely through the forgiveness of sins that fallen and wounded sinners are healed and restored. Jeremiah says, “Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shrill be saved” (Jer. 17:14). In this too there are temptations and the Apostle Paul warns us of the temptations involved in soul care with good reason. Our sin-corrupt flesh often hinders us in this task. Weariness and impatience, a sin-burdened conscience, pride, or self-righteousness, for example, may cause us to be harsh and unforgiving much like the wicked servant in Jesus’ parable of the ten thousand talents (Man. 18). It is important that we are ready to forgive. Jesus said, “Freely ye have received, freely give” (Matt. l0:8). And He warned His disciples: “If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matt. 6:14, l5). When we remember and believe that our Heavenly Father has graciously forgiven our debt of ten thousand talents, we also wish to graciously forgive our brethren and approach them in meekness and humility as Paul here teaches. We must remember that understanding and spiritual gifts, like all other gifts, are not the result of our own virtue and skill, but are gifts of God. Paul warns the Corinthians, “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall" (1 Cor. 10: l2). Jesus, the Great Caretaker of Souls, gave us the best example of the humility needed in caring for souls while washing His disciples feet. John writes, “So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me master and Lord: and he say well; for so I am. If then your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, the servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” (John 13:12-17). 5. Bear Ye One Another's Burdens Soul care does not always involve dealing with sin and matters of conscience. Life often brings burdens and trials, for example, depression, illness, the death of loved ones, or perhaps financial difficulties to mention but a few. In this text Paul instructs us to carry one another's burdens and “so fulfill the law of Christ.” The author of the Letter to the Hebrews also writes, “Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body” (Heb 13:3). The prayers of God's children, comfort and instruction in His Word, singing songs and hymns, and the sharing of personal psalms all offer relief and encouragement for those that are faced with adversity. Likewise help and support with the practical matters of daily life may lighten someone's burden. 6. Conclusion Finally, it is also worth mentioning that we need to recognize that man is also an intellectual and physical being. Due to the nature of psychological and emotional problems, as well as our inexperience in dealing with them, we may in some cases confuse them with spiritual problems. We need to exercise caution in dealing with such cases and when necessary recommend professional help. We may lean upon current knowledge when dealing with both psychological and physical health. It is written in Ecclesiasticus, “Honor a physician with the honor due unto him for the uses which ye may have of him: for the Lord hath created him. . .The Lord hath created medicines out of the earth; and he that is wise will not abhor them. . . And he hath given men skill, that he might be honored in his marvelous works. With such doth he heal [men,] and take away their pains” (Ecclus. 38:1,4,6,7). We also understand that it is easier to face both psychological and physical difficulties with a heart and conscience that have been cared for and obtained peace in the gospel.