Formerly Chief of Sinners (Luke 19:1-10) Many Minnesotans remember June 3, 1990: the day Mr. and Mrs. Gorbachev came to visit. What unforgettable images! The leader of the Soviet Union randomly halting his motorcade and launching himself into adoring crowds; his wife visiting, in her words, a “typical middle-class family” in Minneapolis. The … [Read more...] about Crossing Paths…on the Road to Jericho – Part 4
Lift Up Your Hearts
This past year, an ELS presidential committee was appointed to create a one-page definition of the unique “ELS Flavor” to which President George Orvick would often refer. The committee has completed its work with this overall theme: “Lift Up Your Hearts—Your Sins Are Forgiven.” This has not only been emphasized in our seminary, but is also what … [Read more...] about Lift Up Your Hearts
A Retirement Oration in Honor of the Rev. Pres. Gaylin R. Schmeling, S.T.M.
This speech was given at the seminary’s retirement party for Pres. Schmeling on May 10, 2022. In the old tradition of Lutheran theological faculties, I wanted to offer some words of appreciation for our distinguished colleague, mentor, and father in the faith, Pres. Gaylin Schmeling, as he enters into his Ruhestand, (i.e., his “retirement”). If … [Read more...] about A Retirement Oration in Honor of the Rev. Pres. Gaylin R. Schmeling, S.T.M.
Pastor, I Have a Question July-August 2022
Question: I know that the Holy Spirit brought me to faith in Christ, but what does the Holy Spirit do after that? What role does the Holy Spirit play in the believer’s daily life? Answer: The same Holy Spirit who breathed physical life into the first human beings at creation breathes spiritual life into God’s chosen people today. God has saved … [Read more...] about Pastor, I Have a Question July-August 2022
Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Thy Word
One might regard Luther’s return to public life in the spring of 1522 as a surprise. “Kidnapped” by Elector Frederick’s men on May 4, 1521, Luther had managed to avoid drawing attention to himself. Since the Edict of Worms, Luther was a wanted man. So what drove Luther to risk coming back to Wittenberg? In a word, it was love: love for the people … [Read more...] about Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Thy Word
Saved by Apologetics?
Christian apologetics provides evidence for the truth of Christianity and for the person and work of Christ. Evidence speaks to our senses and reason. That raises some questions for the Lutheran who has been taught to be careful when it comes to the use of reason. Can apologetics be used to convict someone of a false worldview or religion? Yes. … [Read more...] about Saved by Apologetics?