Lutheran Sentinel

As we approach the holy season of our Lord’s nativity, we likely will join in asking the question: “Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass lately fed?” My fellow sinners, we all know the answer quite well. As shameful as it is, we know our Lord Jesus even as a baby was our holy Substitute. Since He came to take our place, He descended to … [Read more...] about Our Holy Substitute

Luther’s Bible translation is considered one of his most important contributions not only to the Lutheran Reformation, but to language, literature, and culture. The translation was begun at the Wartburg after Christmas in 1521, and the first draft was completed in an astonishing eleven weeks. Back in Wittenberg in March, Luther had the help of … [Read more...] about Luther at the Wartburg: The Secret visit to Wittenberg

This last psalm in our year-long series is also the first. It is the last psalm we’ll consider for now, but in the Church’s worship services, it is the first. Psalm 25 is the appointed psalm for the First Sunday of Advent. And as the first psalm traditionally heard as a new Church year begins, let’s ascribe it to Adam. Adam’s psalm. Adam, … [Read more...] about Praying the Psalms: Psalm 25

Zacchaeus was a tax collector. He was hated by the nationalists and the religious people of his day because he worked for a foreign and heathen government. Jesus was on the way through Jericho to Jerusalem for His last celebration of the Passover and His suffering, death, and resurrection for humanity. Jesus found Zacchaeus and went to his house in … [Read more...] about Engaging Unbelievers in Conversations Leading toward the Gospel Proclamation of Forgiveness in Christ

In our U.S. courts of law, there is a standing presumption of innocence until sufficient evidence has proven otherwise.  This places the substantial burden of proof on the prosecuting team.  The prosecuting team has to argue one very particular case true.  The defense team, by contrast, has many avenues to their desired end.  Any evidence that … [Read more...] about Away from the Tempter & Toward Deliverance

In recent years, the transgender movement has grown more prominent. In the past year alone, I’ve encountered more trans people in society than I have in my entire life up to this point. How do Christians respond to the transgender movement? In the 1970s and 80s, young children would see Mr. Rogers on their televisions singing a song entitled … [Read more...] about How Do Christians Respond to the Transgender Movement?