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

------------------------

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

When every other space in our lives sorts us by class, education, or insider/outsider status, what does it mean to really belong in Church?

In this sermon, Pastor Karl unpacks the radical inclusivity of the gospel and challenges the assumption that digital access can replace being physically present in the worshiping community. There's irreplaceable power in hearing Christ proclaimed by someone who knows your name.

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.

------------------------

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.

------------------------

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