Lutheran Illustrations
Law and Gospel, justification by faith, sacramental theology.
Key question: “How does this distinguish Law from Gospel?”
14930 illustrations found
The Doctrine of Understanding - Commentary
Isaiah 40:31 offers a profound promise: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” This verse...
When Healthcare & Healing Ministry Meets Faith
Imagine a bustling hospital ward, where the hum of machines blends with the soft murmurs of nurses and the quiet sobs of families. In one corner, a young mother clutches the hand of her feverish child, her eyes wet with...
Theological Perspective: Faith - Commentary
As we turn to Isaiah 40:31, we encounter a profound promise: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and...
Theology of Redemption - Commentary
To understand the profound truth of John 14:6, where Jesus declares, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life,” we must delve into the very heart of our redemption. Here, Jesus isn’t merely providing a theological statement; He...
Faith and Forgiveness - Teaching Material
Trusting in the Lord with all our hearts, as we read in Proverbs 3:5-6, invites us into a profound relationship of faith. In this passage, the writer encourages us to lean not on our own understanding but to acknowledge God...
Faith and Salvation - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Romans 8:28, we are reminded that "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." This profound truth anchors our faith amidst life’s uncertainties. Picture a tapestry—each thread representing...
Scriptural Insight: Digital Discipleship - Reflection
As we navigate the digital landscape of our modern lives, we find ourselves in the midst of a profound challenge and opportunity for discipleship. The prophet Micah, speaking to a people wrestling with their own identity and faith, distills God's...
Lessons from Life - Contemporary Example
In a bustling urban neighborhood, there is a community center that serves as a lifeline for many families. One day, a single mother named Maria walked through its doors, weighed down by the struggles of life. She had just lost...
Luther's Anfechtung and Renewal - Lutheran (Isaiah 40:31)
Martin Luther experienced what he called Anfechtung—spiritual attacks of doubt, depression, and despair. Even after his breakthrough on grace, dark periods returned. How did he endure? Not by positive
Hidden Under the Cross - Lutheran (Jeremiah 29:11)
Jeremiah 29:11 came to people who had every reason to think God had abandoned them. Temple destroyed. Nation conquered. Promise seemingly broken. Yet precisely THERE, God spoke of hope and future. Lut
Luther's Rediscovery - Lutheran (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Luther tried works: fasting, confession, pilgrimage, self-punishment. Nothing brought peace. Then he understood: "By grace... through faith... NOT by works." He later said, "This one and firm rock, wh
Lessons from Science and Faith
In our modern world, Science and Faith presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Luke 6:20-21 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Science and Faith. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding to the complexities o...
A Modern Story of Fruit Of The Spirit
In our modern world, Fruit Of The Spirit presents both challenges and opportunities for people of faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom and grace. Consider how Ephesians 2:8-9 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Fruit Of The Spirit. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding to the complexities of our current situation. This modern example ...
A Modern Story of We Have What We Need to Practice Love
In our modern world, We Have What We Need to Practice Love presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Romans 12:18 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding We Have What We Need to Practice Love. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understand...
Finding Women and Church Leadership in Everyday Moments
In our modern world, the question of women in church leadership continues to challenge traditional structures. Consider the story of Sarah, a young woman who felt called to ministry but was told by her denomination that women couldn't be pastors. Instead of giving up, she started a small house church in her community, focusing on social justice and inclusive worship. Within two years, her congregation had grown to include people from various backgrounds who felt unwelcome in traditional churches...
Finding Science and Faith in Everyday Moments
In our modern world, Science and Faith presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how 1 John 4:19 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Science and Faith. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding to the complexities of...
Lessons from Social Media and Community
In our modern world, Social Media and Community presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Matthew 25:31-46 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Social Media and Community. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding...
The Reconciliation and Forgiveness Challenge
In our modern world, Reconciliation and Forgiveness presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Matthew 22:37-39 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Reconciliation and Forgiveness. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and re...
Lessons from Economic Justice and the Kingdom
In our modern world, Economic Justice and the Kingdom presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Luke 6:20-21 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Economic Justice and the Kingdom. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and re...
Real-World We Have What We Need to Practice Love
In our modern world, We Have What We Need to Practice Love presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Amos 5:24 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding We Have What We Need to Practice Love. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding...
Lessons from Climate Change and Hope
In our modern world, Climate Change and Hope presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Matthew 25:31-46 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Climate Change and Hope. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding to th...
When The Peculiar Politics of Christ Meets Real Life
In our modern world, The Peculiar Politics of Christ presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Luke 10:25-37 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding The Peculiar Politics of Christ. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and res...
A Contemporary Climate Change and Hope Story
In our modern world, Climate Change and Hope presents both challenges and opportunities for people of progressive Christian faith. Like the biblical characters who faced similar struggles in their time, we too are called to navigate these waters with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Consider how Luke 12:33 speaks to the contemporary issues surrounding Climate Change and Hope. The timeless truths found in Scripture provide a foundation for understanding and responding to the comp...
The Mental Health & Spirituality Challenge
Mental health struggles are often hidden in our churches, yet they affect nearly everyone. Like the woman who touched Jesus' hem in the crowd, many suffer in silence, afraid to speak up about their anxiety, depression, or trauma. Consider Marcus, a worship leader who shared his battle with depression from the pulpit. His vulnerability opened doors for others to seek help and support. The church became a place of healing, not just spiritual, but emotional and psychological as well. This modern ...