What Christians Need To Know About Luther
Sunday, July 25, 2021
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Monday: Read Philippians 3:7-9. Once he knew Jesus Christ and His free salvation, Paul threw away those accomplishments, confessed his sin and guilt, and depended on Jesus’ gift of righteousness alone. Why does Paul consider his accomplishment in the flesh “loss” and “rubbish” instead of something he can add to Jesus’ merits? Why do you think we are so inclined to put the focus on ourselves and our works rather than focus on Jesus and His works for us?
Tuesday: Read Matthew 28:20. From a Law point of view, what are the times you wish God wasn’t looking? From a Gospel point of view, what are times you’re glad He is always there? How is your perception of God affected by the good events in your life? The bad ones?
Wednesday: A few years after visiting Rome, Martin Luther was in the process of studying the original texts of the Bible, when God truly transformed his life of faith. Looking back, what events has God used to transform your faith life? Would you describe your coming to faith as being an extended process like Luther’s or more like a transformative moment?
Thursday: Read Romans 8:35-39. Reflect on the knowledge that there is NOTHING that will be able to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus. How is this freeing?
Friday: As you rise and get your day started, pray Luther’s morning prayer --
I thank you, my Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
As you end your day and prepare for sleep, pray Luther’s evening prayer --
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have graciously kept me this day; and I pray that You would forgive me all my sins where I have done wrong, and graciously keep me this night. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
“Then go to sleep at once and in good cheer.” - Martin Luther
Saturday: Consider starting to read "Through Faith Alone - 365 Devotional Reading" (Amazon Kindle) from Martin Luther or "Luther’s Small Catechism" (Amazon Kindle). You can also watch the 2003 move "Luther" directed by Eric Till and Marco Canosa.
Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:
- "The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath" by Mark Buchanan (Amazon Kindle)
- “Lead Like It Matters to God: Values Driven Leadership in a Success-Driven World“ by Richard Stearns (Amazon Kindle)
- “Lincoln’s Greatest Speech: The Second Inaugural“ by Ronald C. White Jr. (Amazon Kindle) (YouTube Video)
You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.