The 26th Sunday after Pentecost
Everything in this world is headed for the graveyard – but some things are also destined to rise from the grave. On that Day of Resurrection as we look back on our earthly life, what will we see? What will have really mattered?
Appointed Readings
Old Testament: Malachi 4:1-6
“Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty.
“Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel. “See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.” |
2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good. Luke 21:5-19, 25-28
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Selected Passage
Luke 21:28 – “…When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Sermon Outline
Be Prepared… But Not Afraid!
I. Introduction
II. Jesus is telling us that:
A. The future is filled with uncertainties
B. He is always with us
C. By standing firm you will gain life.
Hymns
“The Lord, My God, Be Praised” – 794
“Rise, My Soul, to Watch and Pray” – 663
“Rejoice, Rejoice Believers” – 515
“Christ Be My Leader” – 861