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Inside This Issue!
• (Not So) New Age • Prayer on the Fly
• When Jehovah’s Witnesses
Come Knocking www
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Christ Academy-High School The Summer Event for High School Men June 19–July 2, 2011
www.ctsfw.edu/christacademy
Do you know there are lots of other guys like you? Many young men across the country are considering the Holy Ministry for their future vocation. Come to Christ Academy to worship, study and fellowship with those who have your same aspirations and find the answer for your future.
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This year, our professors will lecture on: � The Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel � The Divine Economy of Salvation � St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans � Being a Theologian of the Cross � Christian Ethics at the Beginning and End of Life
For more information call us at 1-800-481-2155, visit our website www.ctsfw.edu/christacademy or e-mail Rev. Andrew Yeager at Andrew.Yeager@ctsfw.edu.
We will also go to Cedar Point and a TinCaps Baseball game!
Concordia Theological Seminary � 6600 N. Clinton Street � Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Contents T A B L E
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FEATURES
4 Theology and The Simpsons
By Rev. Robert Wentzel Warning: Watching The Simpsons may play an unexpected role in the development of your theological discernment. Rev. Wentzel’s humorous presentation of some of the choice theology portrayed on The Simpsons may just help you get a better grasp of your own understanding of Lutheran theology. Maybe you can finally set the record straight for Homer, who has been known to claim that Christianity is “You know, the one with all the well-meaning rules that don’t work out in real life.” D’oh!
6 Creation and Current Questions
By Rev. Frederick W. Baue Prominent atheist Richard Dawkins has asserted that the creation account in Genesis is merely one of many mythical versions since the beginning of civilization. For the Christian, however, this first book in the Scriptures is absolutely foundational to understanding the rest of God’s Word. A fundamental misunderstanding of its account can lead to the compromise of Biblical truth. Rev. Baue shows you how some of the most “relevant” questions of our day can be dealt with from the solid truths presented in the Doctrine of Creation.
8 Out of Many, One in Christ
By Rev. Jacob Gaugert “There were this Mexican and a Slovak in church one Sunday...” Sounds like the start of a bad joke but it’s the reality at Rev. Gaugert’s church. Find out the history of Evangelical Church of Doctor Martin Luther in Chicago and how God’s faithfulness has brought this unique body of believers together and sustained them, in spite of substantial cultural barriers. It’s an encouraging reminder that nothing can thwart the work of the Holy Spirit.
10 When Jehovah’s Witnesses Come Knocking
By Rev. Eric Lange Do you run and hide when your friendly, neighborhood Jehovah’s Witnesses pop by? Perhaps you politely open the door and listen to them give their earnest spiel, your eyes glazing over. Well try this on for size: Maybe you can equip yourself to handle their claims but more importantly, give an answer for the hope that is in YOU. Rev. Lange gives you some great foundational information and counsel as you consider your response for the next time you hear that knock on the door.
Photos courtesy of CM Almy & Son, Inc. www.almy.com © 2010
12 The Handiwork of God: Foundations
By Rev. Dr. James Lamb We live in a culture where life is attacked on many fronts. Abortion and euthanasia are two of the most prominent aggressors, but sometimes the attackers are more covert. Rev. Lamb weaves together a warm blend of family accounts and Scriptural truths in this first of four articles dealing with the preciousness of life and how we can protect it by remembering that our true value is found in Christ!
Volume 10/Number 4 • Winter 2010
14 Going to Hell with Jesus
By Rev. Shawn Kumm “Go to H-E-double hockey sticks!” Usually this is merely an expression of anger. For Christ, it was a vital part of His mission to conquer sin and death on your behalf. Rev. Kumm carefully handles that somewhat mysterious phrase in the Apostles’ Creed: “He descended into Hell.” The best part is that Christ’s descent has given YOU the freedom to tell the Devil where to go with his lies and accusations.
19 Why Do Pastors Wear Vestments? By Rev. Jon J. Sollberger In an era where pastors who wear Hawaiian shirts are seen as in touch with their congregations, it’s important to understand the tradition of vestments. Every piece has a purpose. It’s not just about the threads, it’s about the theology.
20 Can Modern, Rational Adults Believe in Miracles?
By Mr. Mark Pierson We carelessly throw around the word “miracle” all the time. We take it for granted. How many of us have been eyewitnesses to an actual miracle? It’s no surprise that this is one of the first areas a non-Christian will attack. Mr. Pierson’s training in apologetics (AKA defense of the faith) will help arm you to defend the rationality of believing in miracles.
24 (Not So) New Age
By Rev. John Sound Over the past few years you have probably caught bits and pieces of the beliefs of Scientology due to some of its more famous followers like John Travolta or Tom Cruise. Think it’s more like science fiction than a religion? Find out by reading Rev. Sound’s thorough summary of the tenets of Scientology and his clear proclamation of the sweetness of the true Gospel.
COLUMNS
22 Feasting with Our Lord: The Feast of Weeks
By Rev. Thomas C. Messer Discover through the final article in this series by Rev. Messer how type and shadow find their fulfillment yet again in the New Testament. The Feast of Weeks, also known as Pentecost, a celebration of the harvests God provided, led to the beginning of a great harvest that continues to this very day. And we get to rejoice in that each time we are part of the Divine Service.
28 Catechism: Prayer on the Fly
By Rev. William Cwirla Does your mouth go dry and pasty when you are asked to pray aloud? Heart thump out of your chest? Perhaps you are deathly afraid of saying the wrong thing. Thankfully, in the name of Christ, we pray to a God who loves to hear what His children have to say. Rev. Cwirla provides some simple guidelines that will free your heart up to bring your petitions, and those of others’ before your gracious Father in Heaven.
30 Bible Study
By Rev. Mark Buetow We have included a simple Bible study in this issue to give you a tantalizing taste of the bountiful study resources available to you online at: http:// higherthings.org/magazine/biblestudies.html.
HigherThings
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Volume 10/Number 4/Winter 2010
Bible Studies for these articles can be found at: http://higherthings.org/magazine/biblestudies.html Editor
Rev. Tim Pauls Managing Editor
Katie Micilcavage Art Director
Steve Blakey Editorial Associates
Rev. Greg Alms Rev. Paul Beisel Rev. Bart Day Subscriptions Manager
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Board of Directors President
Rev. William Cwirla Vice President
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Higher Things® Magazine ISSN 1539-8455 is published quarterly by Higher Things, Inc., PO Box 156, Sheridan, WY 82801. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the executive editor of Higher Things Magazine. Copyright 2010. Higher Things® and Christ on Campus® are registered trademarks of Higher Things Inc.; All Rights Reserved. Printed in the United States. Postage paid at St. Louis, Missouri. For subscription information and questions, call 1-888-448-2359 or e-mail subscriptions@higherthings.org. (This phone number is only used for subscription queries.) For letters to the editor, write letters@higher things.org. Writers may submit manuscripts to: submissions@higherthings.org. Please check http://higherthings.org/magazine/writers.html for writers’ guidelines and theme lists.
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By Rev. Jacob Gaugert
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Christ Mosiac courtesy of LCMS World Relief and Human Care
Out of Many, One in Christ
“Somos uno en el Espírtu.”“Mysme jedno v duchu”“We are one in the Spirit.” A trio of banners with these words that echo Ephesians 2:18 welcomes all who come to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Dr. Martin Luther in Chicago. These languages are an odd combination, but they reflect the people who receive the Lord’s gifts here.
e are one in the Spiri
In the early 20th century thousands of immigrants came from what is known today as Slovakia. They were fleeing from a centuries-old program by which the Hungarian government forced the Slovaks and others to speak and act more Hungarian. The Slovaks could not use their language in public—not in papers, schools, church, nor even in the spelling of their own names. The economic situation in Slovakia left much to be desired. Taking a chance to forge a better life in America, large groups of Slovaks settled in Chicago, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Upon their arrival, many Slovak Lutherans used their new liberties to encourage the use of their language. In October 1908, a group of Slovak men in Chicago formed a group they named the Slovak Evangelical Literary Circle. These men, many of whom did not have a formal education, came together to read, recite poems, and sing in Slovak. They were holding onto their traditions, their culture, and most of all, their Lutheran confession. The writings of Luther, translated centuries before, were readily available. They also loved to sing from their beloved Slovak Lutheran hymnal, the Tranoscius. For them, being a good Slovak went hand in hand with being a good Lutheran. In August 1913, they and their families formed the Slovak Congregation of Dr. Martin Luther. They were gradually blessed with stable and fair employment, and slowly became more established and “American.” In 1933, English services were added. In 1948, the congregation moved to its current house of worship in Gage Park. Along with their Polish and other eastern European neighbors, the Slovak Lutherans continued to enjoy their nice neighborhood. They could go to their restaurants, their stores, their banks and speak their language in their community. This cozy situation, however, would not last. Like most urban centers in the 70’s and 80’s, the city of Chicago began to experience “white flight.” Those of European descent moved farther out of the city and other groups moved in. In Gage Park, these new people were predominantly Mexican. Like the Slovaks decades ago, they were also seeking out a better life. As the evangelism committee went knocking on doors in the neighborhood each year, they encountered more and more people who did not speak English or Slovak, but instead spoke Spanish. English signs on the surrounding businesses were replaced. Gangs also moved in. The community quickly changed. In contrast to other congregations that sold their buildings and moved out to the suburbs, the stubborn Slovaks decided that their church was called to the place where it was. But how would they change while still being faithful to their good confession? The congregational leadership began to act. In the 90’s, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes were offered for the first time. Various pastors and deacons received calls to the congregation specifically to do outreach to the new neighbors. Spanish hymnals were added and Spanish Bible studies and worship
services offered, but the new neighbors did not come streaming in to join the congregation. These new residents and their families had their own language and culture which were closely tied to their identity as Roman Catholics. Cultural ties to the faith had facilitated the founding of the congregation long ago. Now they presented a new barrier to outreach. Despite slow progress and few new members, the congregation held on to their Lord’s promise to bless HIS work, year after year. Now, slowly, by the Lord’s blessing, things are changing. Like the Slovaks decades ago, the Mexican neighbors are also becoming more “American.” With each generation, more speak English. Mixed marriages are not uncommon. The neighborhood is far from perfect, but home ownership is on the rise. The lines and distinctions between “us” and “them” are gradually fading. That’s not to say that there are no more challenges, but our Lord’s promises are greater than our fears, prejudices, and doubts. Slowly, the Spirit is drawing more of our neighbors to come and receive Jesus’ forgiveness in this place. ESL classes are still offered. Spanish versions of Luther’s Small Catechism, Portals of Prayer and Good News magazine are available. Spanish Bible studies and bilingual Divine Services are offered. The youth group is active. We not only pray for the needs of our own members, but also consciously remember “all people according to their needs,” our neighbors, and those who suffer in our city and the whole world. Our church potlucks feature traditional Slovak halusky and pirohy, as well as tamales and Spanish rice. The gospel is not bound or limited to any particular skin color, culture, or language group. Being German, Slovak, American, or Mexican does not determine if one is a good Lutheran. Rather, it is the faith and confession that Christ gives that does. The Church is not called to avoid what is new or foreign, but to encounter it head on and engage it with our Lord’s powerful, transformative Word. The reality of Pentecost is still a reality for Christ’s Church in the here and now. Now this doesn’t mean that we are to go out and try to make our churches into poster-child communities of multiculturism. Many churches do just that, but without truly caring for the souls of their members with genuine Law and Gospel proclamation. We are called to be faithful and to receive our Lord’s gifts as He gives them to us in Word and Sacrament. That’s how true unity is formed and fostered. Thanks be to God for His work here and to His whole Church on earth! Out of many, by God’s grace,“We are one in the Spirit.” Rev. Jacob Gaugert is originally a country boy from Wisconsin. He is the pastor of Evangelical Church of Doctor Martin Luther in Chicago, Illinois. In his free time he enjoys reading, studying languages, and gardening. He can be reached at soul_man_jake@yahoo.com
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When Jehovah’s Witnesses Come Knocking By Rev. Eric Lange
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They’re at your door!!! Now what do you do? Peter tells you. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15) Are you ready?
When it comes to Jehovah’s Witnesses, it is helpful not only to know what you believe, but also to be familiar with what they believe. They come with “another gospel which is really no gospel at all” (Galatians 1:6-7). You will use many of the same words, but with totally different meanings. It can be pretty confusing. Jehovah’s Witnesses will talk about God’s Son, Jesus Christ. But the Jesus Christ of the Jehovah’s Witnesses is very different than the Jesus Christ we confess. Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that Jesus was at first only a spirit creature, that is, an angel. He was the first of God’s creations and God used Him to create all other things. Then He became a man—and only a man—so that He could provide a ransom for mankind. After His “resurrection” He once again became only a spirit creature. For Jehovah’s Witnesses, at no time was Jesus, “very God of very God,” nor can they confess that He is “begotten, not made.” Jehovah’s Witnesses will talk about the ransom Christ paid for mankind, but they will argue that for it to be a genuine “ransom” it could only be the value of one human life. As proof of this they cite “an eye for an eye” (cf. Exodus 21:24). Thus, Jesus’ ransom obtains merely the opportunity for human life that Adam lost for his children. This is also why, in the minds of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Jesus could not be a man after His “resurrection” because He sacrificed His right to human life. Thus, He cannot take it back again. When Jehovah’s Witnesses talk about “resurrection” they do not mean the returning of the soul or spirit to the body, as we do, but they actually mean that God “remembers” you and “recreates” you. When you die there is no “you” left, except in God’s memory. For Jehovah’s Witnesses, death means “ceasing to exist.” For us, death refers to “separation.” Therefore, we distinguish between three types of death: spiritual death, referring to our separation from God due to sin; physical death, referring to the separation of body and soul; and eternal death, referring to the eternal separation from God’s gracious presence. Jehovah’s Witnesses also don’t believe that all believers will go to heaven. Taking the symbolism in the Book of Revelation literally, they believe only 144,000 will go to heaven. These, like Jesus, cease to be human, but become spirit beings. All other Jehovah’s Witnesses—what they call “the other sheep” or “the great multitude”—will live on “paradise earth.” Most importantly, Jehovah’s Witnesses have no certainty of God’s favor, for it is based on their faithfulness, not Christ’s faithfulness. Because Jehovah’s Witnesses, like any other sinful human beings, fail to be perfectly “faithful,” they can never
be sure of God’s love for them as individuals. There are a few important things to remember when confronted with Jehovah’s Witnesses. First, not every Jehovah’s Witness is the same, so it is important to view them as individuals. Some will be aggressive and assertive, convinced that they have the truth and that you are in error. But others will be not so firmly attached to their beliefs. Even those who come to your door are not all the same. Many times one individual is a long-time Jehovah’s Witness and the other(s) are beginners. Second, you will be exposed to them in different contexts. Obviously, having a relative who is a Jehovah’s Witness is a different scenario than the stranger who comes to your door. If you can build a relationship, that is always helpful. This, of course, requires time and commitment. However, even when they come to the door you, as a Christian, ought to be able to “give the reason for the hope that you have.” Slamming the door in their faces does not begin to accomplish this. Peter reminds us to give the reason “with gentleness and respect.” Thus, we need to remember that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, we endeavor to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), even to Jehovah’s Witnesses. Slamming the door is easy, but it only further convinces Jehovah’s Witnesses that they have the truth because they view such actions as persecution. On the other hand, what would individual Jehovah’s Witnesses think if every time they came to a Lutheran door they heard, “Although I am open-minded and will take your literature, I am a Lutheran, and I have to tell you I am so blessed by my church and knowing all that Jesus has done and continues to do for me I just don’t see how anything could be better than what I already have. I hope you can possibly find this same comfort in your church, too.” Witnessing to Jehovah’s Witnesses is a difficult task, and this article barely scratches the surface of their teachings. Nor does it discuss the Bible passages Jehovah’s Witnesses cite and the counterarguments that can be found in the Bible. For those you need to speak to your pastor, or you can contact me. But hopefully this article helps you to see the hope that you have and the need to be prepared to answer the Jehovah’s Witnesses, when they come knocking. Rev. Eric Lange serves as pastor at Redemer Lutheran Church in Gresham, Oregon. He invites questions at rdmr-lcms@juno.com.
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