Articles
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Why Are We Here?
If someone were to hear the name of your church, would they know about you or would they know you? Better yet, would they know Jesus as Savior King?
A Faithful Heritage and Renewed Hope for Our Japan Mission
LBIM is a mission committed to serving in unreached places and among unreached people. As such, we are entering into a new partnership with our Japanese brothers and sisters for a renewed mission focus in Japan. Rather than shrinking back from the challenge, we are choosing to lean into it, for the sake of the gospel going forth in Japan, by God’s grace and for his glory.
Joining Jesus…on the way to Japan
What a blessing is a church willing to take a risk and invest their time and love into those who may be with them only for a short time! I am forever grateful for our experiences here at Rock of Ages and with the other churches, small groups of believers, our families and many more who impacted us and have played a part in God equipping us for what is ahead.
Jesus has Scars
On July 9, 2020, a six-year-old boy and his four-year-old sister were at a friend’s house. After growing bored inside, the three kids decided to play in the backyard. Upon entering the yard, the friend pointed to one dog and said, “That’s the nice dog.” He then pointed to a second dog, a German Shepherd, and said, “That’s the mean one.”
Gospel Partnership
Have you ever thought about planting a church? About ten years ago, God spoke to me in a pastors’ meeting where I heard that the best way to see new people come to Christ was through church planting efforts.
The Mysterious Messiness of Multiplying New Disciples
Jesus is endowed with all the authority of heaven and earth (Matt. 28:18). And it is in and because of this authority that he calls us, commissions us—yes, commands us—his Church, to “go into all the world and make new disciples.” As such, we consider ourselves a Disciple Making Church, and we seek to multiply new disciples.
Superabundantly Generous
Why do I give to the CLB? I give out of thanksgiving for a body of believers who have been faithfully preaching to me, shepherding me, and feeding me with Word and Sacrament, so that I might grow in faith and grace for over 40 years, even when I was but a “guest in the house,” not a member.
So, You Want to Lead a Bible Study?
It was a cold January Minnesota evening, after a busy Christmas season. A good night to stay cozy at home. Would anyone be brave enough, or interested enough to come to church for a seminar about leading Bible studies?
Called to Follow the Word
Faith & Fellowship magazine recently interviewed Lutheran Brethren Seminary distance student Josh Graber, on-campus student Eric Reese, and graduate, missionary Claire Rose, about the importance of studying God’s Word.
Connected: Partners in Mission
Today, in January of 2023, I have in front of me a small booklet which we use to deliver a clear description of the current objectives of the Church of the Lutheran Brethren. It comes down to four words: Call, Partner, Unleash, and Multiply.
Hillcrest: Multiplying New Disciples
Ruth came to Hillcrest Academy in Fergus Falls, Minnesota as a Junior, bringing with her a well-marked Bible, since she had been following Jesus from childhood.
“Well, It’s Time”
"Well, it’s time.” Have you ever used that line? I am using it today because it is time to announce plans for a change in leadership at Lutheran Brethren Seminary.
Unleash New Leaders
As baptism and communion, rest and life, God come near in Christ—all in the new covenant are anticipated in the old, signaled by such things as circumcision, Passover, promised land, Jerusalem, temple; so while less obvious yet as profound is Jesus’ commission to go make disciples pre-echoed in the very first commission of the Old Testament.
God Gives More Than You Ask or Imagine
The first seven years of my life were spent in Ethiopia. I remember life there being very challenging. Water was scarce. Food was scarce. I feared the weather, as it contributed to the scarcity of food and could also often lead to the lack of shelter.
Living In the Ordinary, Living Out the Extraordinary
But when I think of mentorship and discipleship over my 57 years, I always recall people first. Men and women freely and joyfully shared their faith and lives with me, pointing me to Jesus because they loved Jesus and loved me, especially when I wasn’t very lovable.
The Hound of Heaven
During a recent lunch with some newer friends, the question was posed: “How did you decide to become a pastor?” My answer usually catches people off guard. “I didn’t.”
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
As we reflect back, our parents and grandparents were supportive of Christian ministries, and we believe that our support of LBS and the other CLB Ministries would find favor with them. Their stewardship and generosity have given us the opportunity to continue their legacy.