THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

(22 August 2021)

Texts: Isaiah 29:11–19; Ephesians 5:22–33; Mark 7:1–13

 

The True Tradition of the Church Is the Ministry of the Gospel of Christ Jesus, Her Savior

 

The true tradition of the Church is the Gospel, which is the preaching and administration of Christ Jesus. Other traditions, although not commanded by God, may serve and support that sacred tradition of the Gospel. But the Church dare not “[reject] the commandment of God” in order to establish or hold to “the tradition of men” (Mark 7:8–9). Sinful people attempt to draw near to the Lord “with their mouth” and to honor Him “with their lips,” while their hearts are far removed from Him (Is. 29:13). Yet, He is “the Holy One of Israel,” who brings about salvation by His cross. Therefore, “the wisdom of their wise men shall perish,” but “the deaf shall hear” and “the eyes of the blind shall see” (Is. 29:14–19). This mystery of Christ is profound, for He is the husband of the Church, and He is her Savior. Not because of any works that she has done, but solely for the sake of His great love, He “gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word” (Eph. 5:25–26). (lcms.org)

 

Acknowledgments:

The Lutheran Service Book. CPH Creative Worship

Scripture quotations are from ESV Bible

All Liturgy Audio Files are from LCMS Worship Ministry - Lutheran Service Book Audio (https://lcms.app.box.com/v/lutheran-service-book)

Please note that the Hymnals are taken from online Auto-generated by YouTube or from thehymnalproject.org, Lutheran Warbler, Koiné, Downtown Music Publishing, CPH

Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies (Thomas Edward Morgan, Music Director of St. John's Episcopal Church0 ; Lord, enthroned in heavenly splendor · VocalEssence Chorale; Hymn #806: “O God, My Faithful God” (Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church Choir)