With you always
I’ve enjoyed hearing the stories about Queen Elizabeth that people have shared since her death in September. Here’s one of my favorites. One summer, Queen Elizabeth was spending time at…
Please explain: Why is Holy Communion so important to confessional Lutherans?
Why is Holy Communion so important to confessional Lutherans? Since the Reformation, no teaching has caused more division than the teaching of the Lord’s Supper. Today, it continues to separate…
What it means to be truly Lutheran: Faith-produced good works
One of the sharpest criticisms of Lutheran theology revolves around the subject of good works. The argument is directed against the teaching that a person is saved by grace alone…
What it means to be truly Lutheran: Living a life of repentance
When Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Theses, he was seeking a debate on the issue of indulgences, especially as they related to the repentance of the Christian. He emphasized this…
What it means to be truly Lutheran: Lord’s Supper
Teachings about the Lord’s Supper separate most of the various branches of Christianity. When true Lutherans accept this teaching of the Scriptures, they stand apart from other Christians. Roman Catholicism…
Fear, fellowship, facts, and freedom
Online worship is truly a blessing. So, is there a curse? As with most things, there can be. My first Sunday of in-person worship since our move back to Arizona…
Please explain: How do I know whom to believe now that Jesus is gone?
Have you ever found yourself on your own: leaving home to launch your adult life, traveling in a foreign country, or losing a spouse or parent? What did it feel…
Please explain: How can Jesus be our friend if he isn’t physically here on earth?
Simeon carried baby Jesus in his arms. John reclined next to Jesus during their last Passover together. Others reached to touch him. What a blessing it was for Jesus’ family,…
Please explain: Why can’t my sister have communion with us?
Why can’t my sister have communion with us? Gary A. Pufahl How do I answer that question “Why can’t my sister have communion with us?” without knowing either the person…