Lutheran Illustrations
Law and Gospel, justification by faith, sacramental theology.
Key question: “How does this distinguish Law from Gospel?”
14930 illustrations found
Spiritual Insight: Redemption - Biblical Insight
Have you ever found yourself lost in a maze, unsure which way to turn? Perhaps it was a physical place, a winding path in a cornfield, or maybe it felt more like the maze of life—filled with decisions and uncertainties....
Quiet Time: Faith - Prayer
As we gather in this sacred space, let's consider the profound connection between faith and prayer. Imagine a young child, her tiny hands folded, eyes closed tightly, whispering a simple prayer to God. In that moment, she isn't burdened by...
Genesis 21:8-21 - Anabaptist Perspective
Anabaptist theology emphasizes the significance of community and peace, viewing this passage through the lens of God's care for all people, including those marginalized, like Hagar and Ishmael. The story demonstrates God's provision and presence in suffering, and encourages the church to extend compassion and support to those in distress, reflecting Christ's love.
The Power of Peace - Story
In a quaint little village nestled between rolling hills, there lived a woman named Clara. She was known for her radiant smile and unwavering faith, yet her life was not free from trials. One winter, a fierce storm swept through...
Genesis 2:1-3 - Anabaptist Perspective
In the Anabaptist tradition, Genesis 2:1-3 emphasizes the sanctity of rest and God's intentional design for creation. This passage reflects the belief that humanity is called to live in harmony with God's creation, cultivating peace and community as a reflection of divine order. The act of resting on the seventh day not only highlights God's sovereignty but also invites believers into a rhythm of life that values relationships and restorative practices.
Genesis 26:1-6 - Anabaptist Perspective
In Genesis 26:1-6, the Anabaptist tradition emphasizes God's faithfulness to His covenant people amidst challenging circumstances. The passage reflects the importance of trusting God's guidance in community, showcasing how faithfulness to God's call can lead to a life of peace and blessing, even in times of conflict and scarcity.
Lutheran Lens Commentary: Ruth 1:1-5
We read Ruth 1:1-5 through the lens of Law and Gospel, recognizing the Law's revelation of human frailty and suffering in the face of famine and death. This passage highlights the consequences of living in a fallen world, where the Law exposes our inability to secure our own future. However, we also
Lutheran Lens Commentary: 1 John 2:28-3:3
We read 1 John 2:28-3:3 through the lens of Law and Gospel, seeing the call to abide in Christ (2:28) as both a command (Law) that exposes our inability and a promise (Gospel) that assures us of our identity in Christ. The passage highlights our baptismal identity as God's children (3:1), which is a
Scripture Study: Lutheran Lens Interpretation Methods
As we gather around the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, we find a profound exploration of love that transcends mere emotion and beckons us into a divine reality. This passage is often celebrated in weddings, but its implications...
Lutheran Lens Commentary: Ruth 2:1-23
In the Lutheran Lens tradition, we read Ruth 2:1-23 as an embodiment of God's providence and grace, highlighting the themes of vocation and divine mercy. Through Boaz's actions, we see the Law at work in its civil use, as he exercises justice and kindness in his vocation. Yet, the passage is also ri
Living Out Perseverance - Teaching Material
As we delve into 2 Timothy 1:7, we are reminded that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. This foundational truth speaks to our call to persevere in faith, even amidst trials....
Genesis 3:14-19 - Anabaptist Perspective
In the Anabaptist tradition, Genesis 3:14-19 is seen as a pivotal moment that illustrates the consequences of sin and the brokenness of creation. This passage emphasizes God's justice in response to human disobedience while also hinting at the hope of redemption through community and discipleship, drawing believers into a transformative relationship with God and one another.
Creation Care: Our First Commission - Story
The sermon emphasizes the biblical mandate for responsible stewardship of creation, highlighting that environmental care is a spiritual responsibility rather than a political issue. It connects the care for the earth with the call to love one's neighbor, particularly in addressing the impacts of environmental degradation on vulnerable populations.
Genesis 28:10-22 - Anabaptist Perspective
In the Anabaptist tradition, Genesis 28:10-22 highlights God's promise of presence and guidance in the midst of human journeying. This passage invites believers to recognize God as an ever-present source of peace, calling them to live in community and discipleship, reflecting God's character as they navigate life's challenges.
Putting Into Practice: Goodness - Contemporary Example
Friends, as we reflect on Jeremiah 29:11, we are reminded of God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and...
Lutheran Lens Commentary: Revelation 3:14-22
We read this passage as a profound interplay of Law and Gospel. The words to the church in Laodicea expose the deep-seated sin of spiritual complacency (Law) — their lukewarm faith is neither hot nor cold, rendering them ineffective and distasteful. This is the Law doing its terrifying work, reveali
Daily Reflection: Perseverance - Prayer
As we journey through life, we often find ourselves in the throes of challenges that test our faith and resolve. Picture a gardener tending to a young sapling, nurturing it through storms and seasons. Each drop of rain, each gust...
Putting Into Practice: Kindness - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Ephesians 2:8-9, which reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our own works, we find a profound call to live out this grace in our daily interactions. The kindness we extend...
Lutheran Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
We read this passage as the Apostle Paul's proclamation of the Gospel in its purity. It begins with a reminder of the Gospel Paul preached, which is the foundation of our faith, and transitions into a powerful testimony of Christ's resurrection. This is Gospel in its purest form—Christ died for our
Genesis 41:9-36 - Anabaptist Perspective
In the Anabaptist tradition, Genesis 41:9-36 highlights God's sovereignty and providence in the midst of human suffering and community needs. The narrative showcases how Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams leads to practical actions that benefit not just Egypt but also surrounding nations, exemplifying the Anabaptist commitment to communal well-being and the call to serve others in love.
Quiet Time: Compassion - Biblical Insight
As we gather today, I invite you to imagine a weary traveler, burdened not just by the weight of their pack but by the struggles of life. Perhaps you see yourself in this image. The road has been long, and...
A Story of Joy - Contemporary Example
There’s a story about a woman named Clara who lived in a quiet town. Clara had always found joy in her work as a nurse, bringing comfort and healing to those in need. However, her own life took a challenging...
Lutheran Lens Commentary: 1 John 2:1-6
In 1 John 2:1-6, we read this passage as a vivid exposition of the interplay between Law and Gospel. The text underscores our call to walk as Christ walked, which the Law reveals as an impossible task for the old Adam, exposing our sin and the bondage of our will. Yet, it also delivers the Gospel pr
Lutheran Lens Commentary: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
We read 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 through the lens of the theology of the cross. Here, Paul boasts of his weaknesses, and we see a clear picture of how God's power is perfected in human frailty. This passage is a profound proclamation of the Gospel — that our strength and righteousness are found not in