Divine Service II –
(Please note, there was a small microphone problem at the beginning of the sermon- the dead air has been edited out. Sermon audio starts about 30 seconds in)
Hymns for today: 452, Psalm 73(pg 94), 771, 538, 306, 473
Readings for today: 2 Samuel 22:1-7, Ephesians 5:1-9, Luke 11:14-28
Blessed are those who hear and obey the Word of our Savior. We don’t like that word,”obey.” It naturally makes us think of having to do something someone else wants us to do. Typically, out of fear of punishment. The Savior calls us to obey, but the Christian does do, not in fear of punishment, but out of love for all he has done. His yoke is easy and his burden is light!
Ephesians 5:1-9 New International Version (NIV)
5 1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.[a] 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.
8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)