God's Word Has Even More to Say

Section 1 in the Small Catechism teaches the “six chief parts” of Christian doctrine, and most Lutherans teach these.  But it’s surprising how few churches teach the next three sections!  Section 2 provides four very helpful “daily prayers” for our use (either directly or as prompts for further prayer).  And Section 4 gives us a set of questions and answers to use when examining ourselves before participating in the Sacrament. 

But for this part of the blog, I want you to know about Section 3.  If you read through this section, you will notice that it is divided into different roles and responsibilities people can have:  pastors, hearers, citizens, husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, children, etc.  And in each sub-section is one or more passages of scripture that speak directly to how that person should carry out their duties.

For example:  Under “To Parents” we find Ephesians 6:4 which says, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”  So if you are a father (or a single mother trying to make up for a fathers’ absence) and you want some guidance on how to do your “God-given job,” this passage makes it clear that bringing your children up in the training and instruction of the Lord is your job.  Now you will probably rely on people in the church to help you do this, but you will make sure that it is getting done well whether you or they are doing the heavy lifting.

The Bible is full of passages that speak to us “where we are” like this.  This is another great reason for every Christian to eagerly study the scriptures.  Maybe you don’t have time to read large portions of the Scripture every day, but I encourage you to read a little every day.  

Get a small devotional booklet that gives you a Bible passage and a couple of paragraphs to think on every day.  (I encourage you to pick up a copy of Portals of Prayer at St. Paul – Annapolis on Sunday.  We distribute them in the narthex.)  After you read the passage of scripture and the author’s brief meditation, ask yourself this question:  “What is God saying to me through this Bible verse right now?”  Maybe the passage will reveal something God desires of you that you have been resisting.  Then simply say, “I’m sorry, Lord.  I want to do better.”  Maybe the passage will reveal something He wants of you that you never realized.  Then simply say, “Lord, I want to serve you.  Help me see how I can do what you have asked today.”  Maybe the passage will encourage you that God has already given you great gifts.  Then simply say, “Lord, thank you so much!”