Jesus says “Βe opened,” and a deaf man instantly hears and speaks plainly. This sermon traces how Christ’s living Word still creates what it commands: He opens ears and looses tongues to confess, turning hearers into confessors in daily life.

On Kickoff Sunday, we rejoice that Jesus gives these gifts through Word and Sacrament: calling children into Sunday School, confirming youth for a lifetime of hearing and confessing, and inviting all to the Divine Service where He forgives, feeds, and sustains His Church.

Key Points:

• Jesus’ Word creates what it commands; when He says “be opened,” ears truly open and tongues are set free in faith.
• Hearing naturally bears fruit in speech: believers confess Christ plainly in ordinary, non-flashy ways at home, church, and community.
• Parents and grandparents place children under the Word; faith is kindled as Christ speaks.
• Confirmation is not graduation but the beginning of a lifelong pattern of hearing and confessing.
• Bible Study isn’t a burden; it’s “more Jesus,” time to learn how to say what you’ve heard.
• A little “rustle” is the sound of a living church that welcomes all ages to the Divine Service.

Scripture References:

• Mark 7:31–37 — Jesus opens deaf ears and looses a bound tongue; His Word does what it says.
• Isaiah 29:18 — The deaf shall hear “the words of a book”; Christ fulfills the promise in His ministry.
• Isaiah 35:5–6 — Messianic signs of opened ears and loosened tongues reveal the coming of God’s salvation.
• Romans 10:17 — “Faith comes from hearing,” underscoring preaching’s central role in creating and sustaining faith.

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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

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