Please explain: What does it mean that “many are invited, but few are chosen”?
What does it mean that “many are invited, but few are chosen”? About two-thirds. That is what I tell a couple as they are planning their wedding. About two-thirds of…
Please explain: How is church discipline a loving practice of the church?
How is church discipline a loving practice of the church? “They kicked me out of the church.” The man in his mid-40s was sincere as he told his story. He…
Please explain: Can a Bible verse be overused or used at an inappropriate time or setting?
Can a Bible verse be overused or used at an inappropriate time or setting? Picking up a family favorite from the dessert section in the grocery store can’t be a…
Please explain: What can I do when my relationship with Jesus causes family problems?
What can I do when my relationship with Jesus causes family problems? I had just finished a brief devotion and prayer at my uncle and aunt’s 50th wedding anniversary celebration.…
Please explain: What good can possibly come from the persecution of Christians?
What good can possibly come from the persecution of Christians? “Christian church burnt down and its pastor locked up!” That kind of headline easily catches our eye. Persecution, however, has…
Please explain: What is the Holy Spirit’s role in the life of a Christian?
What is the Holy Spirit's role in the life of a Christian? When Lutheran students learn about the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian, they…
Please explain: What does it mean that Jesus’ enemies would become a footstool for his feet?
What does it mean that Jesus’ enemies would become a footstool for his feet? If you asked a room of Christians what their favorite post-Easter picture of Jesus is, what…
Please explain: What do people mean when they say that they have been “born again”?
What do people mean when they say that they have been "born again"? A former Lutheran I met in a nursing home became confused as a young woman when Pentecostal…
Please explain: What does it mean that Christians are priests before God?
What does it mean that Christians are priests before God? The sign-up sheets for the neighborhood canvass were empty. The pastor went out of his way to recruit more door-knockers.…