"I first came to this conference 20 years ago at a very low time in my ministry." The conference so renewed his hope that he's come back ever since. Some minutes later, the same sentiment from another speaker. The encouraging gathering is the Mega Church Conference, a meeting of many pastors of large Lutheran churches. Attending this conference myself, I'm impressed by the camaraderie and encouragement these pastors and spouses share with one another.
Some ministers clumsily corrupt Christianity into nothing more than burdensome rules. There are rules, the Ten Commandments, and they show our sin, a sad fact. But Christ's forgiveness? His resurrection? His living, His praying for us, His helping us? Aren't these reasons for joy and confidence?
Pastors are preparing their sermons for Sunday. C.F.W. Walther, a 19th century professor told seminary students, "I wish to talk the Christian doctrine into your very heart, enabling you to come forward as living witnesses with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power. I do not want you to be standing in your pulpits like lifeless statues, but to speak with confidence and cheerful courage, offering help where help is needed.” (Law and Gospel, p. 9). So pastors, be with us, encourage us! Don't turn the Good News we need into your burdensome law.
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