Reading & Study

Kingdom of the Left: Luther on Temporal Authority

Since the twentieth century, Lutherans have spoken about a “two-kingdoms” doctrine to work out the relationship between church and state.

How will the LCMS adapt when checkbooks rest in museums?

Are we asking – even expecting – an increasing number of people to use the financial equivalent of a rotary-dial phone in an era of smartphones and chip-enabled debit cards?

Formula of Concord Study: Article VI

Even during Luther’s lifetime, a strong “antinomian” (against the Law) spirit had risen up among certain theologians who claimed that, once the Gospel regenerates the heart, the Law is no longer needed.

Welcoming Questions

As we approach Reformation Day, are our churches a place where we can wrestle with questions of faith? In a time with instant access to information, the church's response to questions can help faith to grow or it can lead to isolation and uncertainty.

Lutheran Spotlight: Philipp Nicolai

If you are a Lutheran, chances are that the music of Philipp Nicolai has delighted your ears and his words have flowed joyfully from your tongue.

“Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word” – Hymn Feature

Luther’s Reformation hymn, “Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word” (LSB 655) is one of his best known compositions. When it was published in 1542, it appeared with the subtitle, “A Children’s Hymn, to be Sung Against the Two Archenemies of Christ and His Holy Church, the Pope and Turk.”[1]

A Foundation and Structure for Faith

Books are like buildings. Think of them as constructed with words and thoughts rather than with bricks and mortar.

Gathering Reflection: I Am An Echo

In Christ alone our lives echo Christ's humility. Youth demonstrated this through service at the Gathering. Continue to be an echo at home.

Solus Christus: Christ Alone

Luther said, “The cross alone is our theology.” Another way to say this is Solus Christus, or “Christ alone” saves us.

LCMS Youth Gathering Revisited

Reflecting on the 2016 LCMS Youth Gathering, giving thanks to God and asking for continued prayers.

Let the Main Thing Be the Main Thing

Who are we? We are children of God. Why are we there? Because God called us.

Bible Study with Luther: Galatians 5:1-6

In chapter 4 of Galatians, St. Paul uses Sarah and Hagar to illustrate that salvation comes not by works of the law, but according to the promise of God. In the final verse...

Lutheran Young Adult Corps launch is years in the making

On Oct. 10, 2016, the application period for Lutheran Young Adult Corps will open for the first time. Young adults aged 18-26 from across the country may apply to serve in under-resourced communities for 10 weeks in the summer or 10 months through the school year.

On the Councils and the Church

As the sixteenth century dawned, there were essentially three answers given to the question: who rules the Church?

Free devotional from LCMS Disaster Response

This devotional booklet is intended for anyone who is suffering from the brokenness of this world. Whether you have been affected by a natural disaster or other trauma, whether your life is extraordinary or you are struggling with normal stress, this is a devotional booklet for you.