Education at Emmanuel
LECTIONARY PLUS: This Sunday, we celebrate both Good Shepherd Sunday and Mother’s Day!
How are we called to be good shepherds in our daily lives? Listen to Pastor Bliese’s reflections on this week’s readings before you come to worship—his insights will help prepare your heart and mind for Sunday’s message.
This week’s readings:
Scripture Reading: Acts 9:36-43
Gospel: John 10:22-30
SUNDAY FORUM:
Listening to a Sermon - As a Lutheran
Finding Christ in Every Sermon: Learn to hear the two words that God speaks in a sermon—Law and Gospel. Discover how this simple, profound truth can change lives and set you free.
Here are the question we will review in today's Sunday Forum - Please take a few minutes to write down your thoughts:
1. What part of the sermon stood out most to you? (Was there a line, image, or moment that stayed with you?)
2. What did you hear as the Law? (What troubled you? What revealed your sin or struggle?)
3. What did you hear as the Gospel? (What gave you hope, comfort, or freedom in Christ?)
4. Where was Christ clearly present in the sermon? (How was Jesus shown as your Savior—for you?)
5. What is Christ saving you from in this sermon? (Sin, fear, shame, lies, death?)
6. What promise did Christ give to you through the sermon?
7. Did the sermon speak to your life right now? If so, how?
8. Any words of encouragement or suggestions for the preacher? Thank you and Gold Bless!
THURSDAY BIBLE STUDY: Discuss the opening baptismal ritual in Lutheran worship and how it can be reflected in daily spiritual practices.
Key Takeaways
The baptismal ritual of confession and absolution sets a pattern for daily spiritual life, not just worship
Luther emphasized hearing God's Word as critical, not just going through rituals
Personal rituals and practices can help prepare one to hear God speak throughout the day
The catechism and liturgy provide tools for spiritual growth, but should be meaningful, not hollow formalism