Main Takeaways

• God forgave you a debt you could never pay (like owing $6 billion!)
• Christians must forgive each other without keeping count or setting
• Forgiveness doesn't erase consequences; you can forgive and still call the police!
• Refusing to forgive others means rejecting the forgiveness God gave you.

Scripture Index (in order of appearance)

• Matthew 18:15-20 – Jesus teaches how to handle sin in the church: talk privately, bring witnesses, tell the church if needed.
• Matthew 18:21-35 – Peter asks how many times to forgive; Jesus says unlimited times and tells the parable of the unforgiving servant.
• Colossians 2:14 – The record of our debt was nailed to the cross through Jesus' hands.
• Romans 4:25 – Jesus was raised from the dead for our justification—proof our debt is paid.
• Matthew 6:12 (Lord's Prayer) – We ask God to forgive us as we forgive those who sin against us.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

Main Takeaways

• The Word of God accomplishes what it declares.
• Faith matures when tested, because we learn to rest on the Word alone, apart from visible reassurance.
• The royal official’s belief shows the model for faith lived out in the sacramental life: trusting God's Word to deliver what it promises.
• The same Word that once created light now creates new life through preaching and the Sacraments.
• Christ’s Word sustains the believer until faith becomes sight.

Scripture Index

• Genesis 1:1–3 – God speaks creation into being, showing that His Word creates reality.
• John 2:1–11 – Jesus' first miracle at Cana shows His divine power.
• John 4:46–54 – The second Cana event affirms that Christ's Word is the same divine speech that created the universe.
• Psalm 130 ("From Depths of Woe" LSB 607) – The sinner’s cry for mercy mirrors faith’s dependence on divine speech.
• Matthew 28:19–20; Luke 22:19–20; John 20:23 – Christ’s Words continue His creative power in Baptism, Communion, and Absolution.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

Main Takeaways

• God calls us His children right now, even when we don’t look like it.
• Baptism joins us to Jesus’ death and resurrection, saving both body and soul.
• Heaven is real, but it’s not the end of the story. Resurrection is.
• The saints rest in paradise, waiting for the day Jesus raises them.
• Nothing can un-adopt you from being God’s child in Christ.

Scripture Index

• 1 John 3:1–3 – We are God’s children now; when Christ appears, we’ll be like Him.
• Romans 5:8 – God showed His love when Christ died for sinners.
• John 3:3–5 – Jesus tells Nicodemus we must be born of water and Spirit.
• Romans 6:3–5 – Baptism unites us to Christ’s death and resurrection.
• Luke 23:43 – Jesus promises paradise to the repentant thief.
• Revelation 7:9–14 – A multitude in white robes washed in the Lamb’s blood.
• Romans 8:38–39 – Nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

Main Takeaways

• The Christian life is a pilgrimage led by Christ, whose cross and resurrection redefine both "death" and "home."
• Heaven is not an abstract idea but a real place where Christ prepares a dwelling for each one of us.
• Through sorrow and loss, the Church sings defiantly: "I'm but a stranger here; heaven is my home."

Scripture Index

• Job 19:25–27 – Job trusts his living Redeemer and looks forward to seeing God after death.
• Psalm 23 – The Lord is the Good Shepherd who guides and protects His people.
• Revelation 7:9–17 – Believers who die in faith now stand before God, washed in the Lamb’s blood.
• John 14:1–6 – Jesus prepares a place for His followers and declares Himself the only way to the Father.
• Revelation 3:20–21 – Christ calls His people into fellowship and gives victory to those who remain faithful.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:13 (implied) – Christians grieve with hope, knowing death is not the end.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

This sermon for Reformation Sunday follows Jesus' words in John 8 that draw a distinction between apparent believers in Him and true disciples.

What makes the difference, according to Jesus?

Whether or not a person abides in His Word.

Main Takeaways
- To “abide” is to dwell permanently in Christ through Word and Sacrament.
- True discipleship involves daily remembrance and trust in Christ’s promises.
- Freedom in Christ is liberation from sin’s mastery, not absolute freedom to live however we feel.
- Word and Supper sustain abiding faith and secure true spiritual freedom.

Scripture Index

• John 8:31–36 — Christ contrasts apparent and authentic discipleship
• John 1:1 — The Word is Christ Himself, who calls us to abide in Him.
• John 14:6 — The Truth that sets us free is not abstract but personal: the Son of God.
• John 3:14–16 — The Son’s lifting up fulfills God’s redemptive design.
• Revelation 13:8 (allusion) — The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world reveals the cross was always the plan.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

Are you frustrated with the gap between your belief in God's future promises and the daily challenges of life?

This exposition of Ephesians 4:1-6 explains why the shallow spirituality of "trying harder" will never solve the issue. Holy living comes as natural growth from baptismal union with Christ.

The challenge for listeners: examine whether your church participation reflects genuine eagerness or mere religious obligation amid competing demands on your time.

Main Takeaways

• Your conduct flows from your identity: you're an heir heading toward glory, so live accordingly (not like someone just keeping rules)!
• Church unity is founded on the Trinity itself, not in our ability to agree or naturally get along
• Growth in holiness happens through Word and Sacrament feeding you, not through willpower
• There's a difference between eager participation and dutiful attendance (one transforms you, the other just fills time)
• When the gospel isn't first priority, other "important" things quietly become idols without us realizing

Scripture Index

• Ephesians 2:4-7 - God loved us and made us alive with Jesus even though we were spiritually dead
• Ephesians 4:1-6 - Walk in a way that matches God's calling; be humble, gentle, and patient with each other
• Ephesians 1:18 - Paul prays we'd understand the hope God gives us
• Luke 14:11 - Don't act proud; God lifts up humble people
• Proverbs 25:6-7 - Don't push yourself to the front; let others honor you instead
• Ephesians 3:17 - Christ lives in your heart through faith and keeps you strong
• John 15:5 - We can't do anything good without staying connected to Jesus
• Ephesians 2:14 - Our unity cost Jesus everything

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

On LWML Sunday we rejoiced that the Gospel is not a ladder to climb but a gift to receive: salvation is free, offered to everyone, and delivered through Christ’s Word preached into our ears. Saint Paul’s logic in Romans 10 drives it home—faith comes by hearing, so Christ must be proclaimed for all to hear and believe.

Key Takeaways:

• God saves by grace alone; the Gospel says “done for you,” not “do this.”
• Salvation in Christ is for all (no distinctions or prerequisites to belong!)
• Faith is created where Christ is preached; therefore preachers are sent.
• Gathering matters: the Word is best received with your local congregation, where your pastor knows and loves you.

Scripture References:

1. Romans 10:11–17 — Everyone who calls on the Lord will be saved; faith comes from hearing the Word of Christ.
2. Isaiah 52:7 — “How beautiful are the feet” of those who bring good news; God sends preachers.
3. Matthew 28:18–20 — Jesus sends His Church to make disciples by baptizing and teaching, promising His abiding presence.
4. Luke 24:47 — Repentance and forgiveness are proclaimed in Jesus’ name to all nations.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship

This world pulls our loyalties in all kinds of directions. Jesus knows this, and He calls us to choose the better Master and to rest from anxious striving. The comfort of Matthew 6:24–34 is that we can seek the kingdom of God first, because we have a good Father who cares for us and provides our needs.

Key Takeaways:

• You cannot maintain split loyalties. Jesus calls you to the better Master who gives peace, not anxiety.
• "Do not be anxious" is repeated 3x in this passage because the Father truly does provide; worry only multiplies itself.
• Seeking the kingdom first is about the priority and pursuit of our lives in light of our salvation; it's not about earning or discovering our salvation.
• You can start small: make the sign of the cross, confess the Creed, pray the Lord's Prayer, and open Scripture before turning to social media.
• Your eternity is secure, so take the long view and rest in the Father's care today.

Scripture References:

1. Matthew 6:24–34 — Jesus declares we cannot serve God and money and urges us three times, “Do not be anxious.” He directs our hearts to the Father’s care and calls us to seek first His kingdom.
2. 1 Kings 17:8–16 — The widow of Zarephath trusts the Lord’s word through Elijah; her flour and oil do not run out, a sign of God’s faithful provision.
3. John 14:6, 9 — Jesus is the Way, and to see Him is to see the Father; therefore, the Father’s care for your daily needs is sure.
4. Acts 11:26 (alluded to) — In Antioch the disciples are called “Christians,” a name believers bear with joy amid trials.

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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.

Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org

Join us Sundays:

• September–May
  • 8:30am Sunday School | 9am Bible Study | 10am Worship
• June–August
  • 9am Worship

#GibbonMN #LutheranChurchMN #LCMSWorship