At this time of year, we as Protestants make it a point to celebrate the Reformation as we praise God for the work of men like Luther, Melanchthon, Calvin, and others. For Martin Luther, the root issue of the Reformation was man’s bondage to sin and his inability to make himself right before God. This is one of the reasons why Luther penned, “The Bondage of the Will” and why our dependence on God for salvation is so profoundly important. The point cannot be stated more clearly—we desperately need Jesus.
In the sermon text for this week, Christ demonstrates His authority over the physical elements of creation as well as the spiritual powers of this world (Matt. 8:26-31). The immediate responsiveness on the part of the storm and the demons is convicting as I consider my own lack of submission to Christ. In light of this contrast, the reality of our salvation in Christ ought to compel our submission to Christ. Not the other way around.
As John Calvin said, “Faith brings a man empty to God, that he may be filled with the blessing of God.” May we recognize the beauty of what the gospel accomplished in our lives, and may we realize our continued need for Christ as we submit to His abiding Lordship. – Pastor Nate Wagner
Sunday at Liberty
- BTH: Pastor Rory–Ecclesiology–Responsibility vs Liberty
- AM: Pastor Rory–Matthew 8:23-34–The Messiah’s Authoritative Deliverance (sermon notes)
- PM: Russ Frederick–John 8:12-30–Jesus Is the Light of the World (Communion)
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