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The Kingdom of Heaven TREASURE HIDDEN IN A FIELD "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth,and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." Matt. 13:44 THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN There is no subject which was more prevalent in Jesus' preaching than the kingdom of heaven, that is, the kingdom of God. It was the most common subject of His parables and was the theme of His preaching.(1) In fact, Jesus said that the first thing that a man should search for in life is God's kingdom and His righteousness.(2) It is important to find God's righteousness, for He has declared man's righteousness, or our very best deeds, impure and unacceptable in His sight.(3)The righteousness which is acceptable before God is found in His kingdom. Jesus was once asked to explain when the kingdom of God would come. In His reply, He reveals two essential points: first, the kingdom of God is not visible to the human eye, and, second, it is present in the midst of men.(4) A HIDDEN KINGDOM It might seem impossible to find a kingdom that cannot be seen, but with God's help it can be found. Jesus said, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (Matt. 7:7). In the parable at the top of the page, Jesus shows us that while the kingdom is hidden, it can indeed be found. The parable illustrates why the kingdom of God cannot be seen. It is like treasure buried in the dust and dirt of a field, hidden from man's sight. It is certainly an apt picture. In this world God's kingdom is hidden beneath the flaws and faults of believing people, people whom God has made from the dust of the earth.(5) A GREAT TREASURE The parable also illustrates what happens when a man finds God's kingdom. He hides its treasure, sells all that he has, and buys it. Simply said, God's kingdom becomes the most important matter in his life. He wants, above all else, to protect and preserve his new-found treasure and follow the people of God and the Lord Jesus.(6) Like the man in the parable, we have found the kingdom of God and obtained its treasure. We now carry this treasure in our sin-corrupt bodies. We wish to share it with you. YOU CAN HAVE THIS TREASURE What we can offer you is God's forgiveness in Jesus Christ. This forgiveness is the very essence of the gospel and the essence of God's kingdom. Martin Luther said: "Forgiveness of sins is nothing more than two words in which the whole kingdom of Christ consists...This word of consolation shall not cease among Christians until the last day: 'Thy sins are forgiven, be of good cheer.' Such language a Christian always uses and openly declares the forgiveness of sins."(7) Luther was right. This word of consolation has not ceased. God's children live of it and use it constantly. We declare it to any sinner who longs for God's forgiveness. We can give you this treasure because Jesus has given us the power to forgive men their sins. He said that what we forgive on earth is also forgiven in heaven, that is, it is forgiven before God.(8) Belief in this gospel of forgiveness obtains what it promises, namely, God's forgiveness and the righteousness of Jesus Christ, the righteousness that is acceptable to God. You can have it too. END NOTES 1 "Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." (Mark 1:1415) "And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people." (Matt. 9:35) "Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick." (Luk 9:1, 2) 2 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matt. 6:33 ) 3 "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." (Isa. 64:6) "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one." (Rom. 3:1012) 4 "And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:20, 21) 5 "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." (2 Cor. 4:7 ) 6 "And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost." (1 Thess. 1:6) 7 Luther, Martin, "Sermon for the 19th Sunday after Trinity" in Luther's Church Postil, Vol.V, trans. John Nicholas Lenker (Minneapolis: Lutherans In All Lands Co. : 1905) 201, 202, 209 8 "Then said Jesus to them again, 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: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." (John 20:2123) "Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matt. 18:18) "And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." (2 Cor. 5:1820)

< Back Confirmation Day 6: Caring For Faith Within the Congregation Day 6, Lesson 3: Communion, a Meal of Remembrance Objective Communion is a meal of remembrance that strengthens the faith of a child of God; When in faith we receive the bread and the wine, we receive the body and blood of Christ Learning Outcome Explain what communion is and its benefit for a believer. Confirmation Exercise Questions #22. What are the sacraments? Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. #25.What is the benefit of Holy Communion? Our faith is strengthened and we are reminded of Jesus’ redemption work for us. #26.Who is an acceptable Communion guest? A believer. Reference Material Booklet Song: We gather here before Your altar; / We break and eat the mutual bread. / We, as Your holy body, Master, / Give thanks to You, our gracious Head. / And when the Bread of Life is breaking, / One mind and spirit You are making. (SHZ 228 v.5) Booklet Text: “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (Matt. 26:26-28) Additional Reference Material SCRIPTURE 1 Cor. 11:26; Luke 22:19, 20, 22; Matt. 26:26-28; 1 Cor.10:16; 1 Cor. 11:27-29 CURRICULUM Lesson 4.3 ADDITIONAL LESSON POINTS Holy Communion is also the feast of God's family and as such is a meal of fellowship. Student will understand how he/she should conduct him/herself at the Communion table. Student will distinguish between Communion and conversion—there is no new birth in Communion. In communion, we remember Christ’s suffering and death for our sins RESOURCES By Faith 26; Christian Doctrine 62; Luther’s Small Catechism Part VI; The Treasure Hidden in a Field, J. Uljas, pages 66-71. VZ: Holy Communion – The Sacrament of the Altar, J. Sturos, Apr. 1984, page 90 ; How is it Taught: Communion, J. Uljas, Oct. 1998, page 5. LLC Website: The Sacraments, M. Lohi, Summer Services Ministers and Board meeting, 2017. Previous Next

< Back December 8, 2024 Happy Second Advent Sunday! Click the link below to see a video featuring song of Zion 23, Oh, Come, Little Children. Oh, Come, Little Children Still, Still, Still Previous

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Camp Terms & Conditions Limitation of Liability The Laestadian Lutheran Church shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of participation in camp activities. Participants and attendees assume all risks associated with their involvement and release Laestadian Lutheran Church from any and all claims, actions, or liabilities arising from such participation. Child Protection The Laestadian Lutheran Church is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children participating in camp activities. All adult staff and volunteers undergo thorough background checks and training in child protection protocols. Any concerns regarding the welfare of a child should be immediately reported to camp staff for appropriate action. Lost Property The Laestadian Lutheran Church is not responsible for lost or stolen property. Participants are encouraged to keep their belongings secure and to report any lost items to camp staff. Lost items will be held for a reasonable period, after which unclaimed items may be disposed of or donated. Privacy Statement The Laestadian Lutheran Church is committed to protecting the privacy of participants, attendees, and their families. This Privacy Statement outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard personal information during camp events. By participating in our events, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Statement. Collection of Information We collect personal information, including but not limited to names, contact details, and health information, for the purpose of organizing and facilitating camp activities. This information is voluntarily provided by participants, parents, or guardians during registration. Use of Information: The personal information collected is used for the following purposes: To communicate important camp-related information. To ensure the safety and well-being of participants. To organize and plan camp activities effectively. To comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Disclosure of Information The Laestadian Lutheran Church does not sell, rent, or disclose personal information to third parties without consent, except as required by law or for the purposes outlined in this Privacy Statement. Limited information may be shared with authorized personnel, such as camp staff and volunteers, for the purpose of event coordination and safety. Security We take reasonable measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. Access to personal information is restricted to those who need it for camp-related purposes. Children Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA): The Laestadian Lutheran Church complies with the Children Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13 without parental consent. Parents or guardians have the right to review and request the deletion of their child's information. Changes to Privacy Statement This Privacy Statement may be updated periodically. Participants and their families are encouraged to review this statement regularly to stay informed about how their personal information is being handled. For any questions or concerns regarding privacy practices, please contact us at camp@llchurch.org Effective Date: December 31, 2023 General Code of Conduct In addition to the privacy considerations, all participants are expected to adhere to the following general codes of conduct during Laestadian Lutheran Church activities: Respect: Treat others with kindness and respect. Safety: Follow safety guidelines and instructions provided by church staff. Compliance: Adhere to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations. Responsibility: Take responsibility for personal belongings and the well-being of oneself and others. Cooperation: Work together with church staff and fellow participants to create a positive and harmonious environment. Payments Payment Policy To facilitate the registration process for Laestadian Lutheran Church events, the following payment policy is established. Participants are encouraged to review these guidelines before completing the registration process. Registration Fee: All participants are encouraged to pay the suggested registration fee when they attend Laestadian Lutheran Church events, however payment is not required. Full Payment Option: Participants have the option to make full payment for the event at the time of registration. Full payment ensures the participant's complete registration and attendance at the event. Deposit: Participants have the option to make a $10 deposit payment at the time of registration and with the balance paid by November 1 of the event year. Monthly Payment Option: For participants who prefer a more flexible payment arrangement, a monthly payment option is available. Monthly payments must be initiated at the time of registration, with the balance paid by November 1 of the event year. Payment Methods Laestadian Lutheran Church accepts payment through credit/debit cards as specified during the registration process. If participants prefer to make payment by cash or check contact camp@llchurch.org . Refund Policy In the event of cancellation, participants who have made full payment or partial payment are eligible for a refund of the paid balance. Event-Specific Considerations Some events may have specific payment requirements or considerations. Participants will be informed of any such conditions during the registration process. For payment-related inquiries or assistance, please contact camp@llchurch.org . Cancellations We understand that circumstances may arise that require participants to cancel their attendance at Laestadian Lutheran Church events. Participants are kindly requested to provide as much advance notice as possible if they need to cancel their attendance at an event. Cancellations can be made by the participant through their FunJoin account. Refunds Refunds will be provided for event registration fees upon cancellation. Refunds will be processed in a timely manner, and the method of refund (e.g., credit card refund) will be determined based on the original payment method. Effective Date: December 31, 2023

< Back December 3, 2024 Click the link below to open instructions for a Christmas star craft. Christmas Star Craft Still, Still, Still Previous

< Back Confirmation Day 2: God, the Triune God Day 2, Lesson 2: Faith, a Gift from God Objective Faith is our connection to God, preserved in a clean and undefiled conscience; By Faith, we already own what we hope for, and believe in things not seen Learning Outcome Define faith and how to preserve it. Confirmation Exercise Questions None Reference Material Booklet Song: Our Faith is the greatest of gifts we could own. / Through Christ we are given the hope of a crown. / Through grace He doth give us the strength to believe / When blessing in His name and blood is received. (SHZ 403 v.2) Booklet Text: But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6) Additional Reference Material SCRIPTURE Hab.2:4; Matt. 6:30; Rom. 1:7; 5:12; 10:17; Acts 26:18; 1 Cor. 2:5; Gal.5:22; Eph. 2:8, 4:5, 6:16; 1 Tim. 1:19, 3:9, 6:12; 2 Tim. 3:15, 4:7; Heb. 10:22,23. 11:1-3, 11-6; 1 Pet 1:7 CURRICULUM None ADDITIONAL LESSON POINTS To know God and our Savior Jesus Christ by faith is the most important matter in man’s life. A general revelation is not sufficient for knowing God Only in Jesus Christ can man truly know God Faith carries us to heaven RESOURCES Voice of Zion: Bible Concepts: What is Faith? Y. Talo, January 1993, page 13 Voice of Zion: Faith of the Heart, L. Hakso, February 200, pages 4,5 Obedience of Faith, E. Alajoki, LLC Winter Services, 1995 Faith and Reason, J. Lehtola, LLC Summer Services, 1995 Unity of Faith and Understanding, W. Lampi, LLC Summer Services, 2007 Through Faith We Understand, K. Nissalä, LLC Winter Services, 2014 Previous Next

2024 Winter Services Meals When Mar 14, 2024, 7:00 PM – Mar 17, 2024, 12:00 PM Where Cave Creek, 32424 N 43rd St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA Details

< Back Confirmation Day 6: Caring For Faith Within the Congregation Day 6, Lesson 2: Confession, a Grace Privilege Objective In confession, you speak to another believer of those sins that trouble your conscience and you receive the assurance of the forgiveness of all of your sins Learning Outcome Explain the two parts of confession and why it is important in a believer’s life. Confirmation Exercise Questions #27. What is confession? Confession consists of two parts: the one is, that we confess our sins; the other, that we receive absolution from the confessor as of God himself, in no wise doubting, but firmlybelieving that our sins are thus forgiven before God in heaven. Reference Material Booklet Song: When doubt and sin are pressing, / A Christian sighs and weeps / And on the way of suff’ring, / For mercy waits and pleads, / And then, in trust and comfort, / Confesses sin and grief / To a confessor father / And finds forgiveness free. (SHZ 306 v.1) Booklet Text: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1) Additional Reference Material SCRIPTURE Ps. 32:1-5; Prov. 28:13; Acts 24:16; 1 Tim. 1:19; 3:9; Heb. 10:22; 12:1-3; James 5:16; Matt. 18:18; John 20:22,23; Rom. 1:17; Eph. 2:8 CURRICULUM Lesson 4.2 ADDITIONAL LESSON POINTS Who has the power to forgive sins? Complete trust is required of a confessor father. Matters spoken of in confession can never be told to anyone else. RESOURCES By Faith 27; Christian Doctrine 83; Luther’s Small Catechism Part V; The Treasure Hidden in a Field, J. Uljas, pages 87-92; Confession, R. Herrala, LLC Winter Services Youth Presentation, 2016; VZ: Confession, A. Paloranta, Oct. 1979, page 154; How it is Taught: Confession, J. Uljas, Nov. 1998, Page 5; Confession, A Healing Slave for the Soul’s Wounds, A. Pelkonen, Sep. 2015, page 5. Previous Next

< Back December 17, 2024 Click the link below to listen to a song about Gabriel, an angel who brought Mary a message. Gabriel’s Message Still, Still, Still Previous