Sermons

We all wrestle with doubt — it’s part of life in a broken world. Even Thomas, one of Jesus’ closest followers, struggled to believe the resurrection until he saw it with his own eyes. In this sermon from John 20:29, we hear how Jesus doesn’t reject us in our doubts but meets us with mercy. Through His Word and gifts, He strengthens our faith and blesses those who trust in Him, even without seeing. Come hear the promise that Christ is risen and holds you fast, even when your faith feels small.

Why does Easter matter? Is the resurrection for real? Can I be saved even with my doubts?—this message unpacks the hope that conquers sin, death, and despair. It’s not just a story; it’s your story, promising forgiveness, victory, and a future that shines brighter than any gloom. Christ’s resurrection is the heartbeat of hope. He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, commemorates the night Jesus was betrayed and marks the beginning of the Holy Triduum. On this night, Jesus gathered with His disciples to celebrate the Passover and instituted the Lord’s Supper—giving His true body and blood for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:26–28; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26). The term “Maundy” comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning "command," referring to Jesus’ new command: “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34).This the final sermon in our Lenten series on the Small Catechism.

On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the triumphant arrival of Jesus—the promised Messiah—who comes not with earthly power, but in humility to bring salvation through the cross. Today’s message, from Pr. Ike Nicholson, explores how Jesus fulfills Scripture and continues to come to us today in Word and Sacrament. As we wave our palms and sing “Hosanna,” we are invited to trust in the King who comes to save.

The Office of the Keys is the special authority Christ gives to His Church to forgive the sins of repentant sinners and withhold forgiveness from the unrepentant as long as they do not repent. It is reviled by many, misunderstood by others, but it is Biblical and it is a gift from God to His church.

Detractors of Christianity will often assert that Jesus never claimed to be God. Yet, in John 8, Jesus asserts His divinity, claiming to be the “I AM” of the Old Testament. He challenges His accusers to prove His sinlessness, emphasizing that faith in His Word is essential for eternal life. Jesus’ declaration of being the “I AM” solidifies His claim to Godhood, highlighting the importance of trusting His promises for salvation. Jesus is either a liar, a lunatic, or He is who He says He is.

Baptism is not just a symbol of faith but a gift from God that saves through water and His Word. It is for all people, including children, as it is the work of the Holy Spirit creating and sustaining faith. Baptism is not a past event but a daily reality, reminding us of our forgiveness and new life in Christ.