August 3, 2025 – From Futility to Faith

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13-C) – Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12–14; 2:18–26

As we continue our look at the responses to the request, “I always wanted to hear a sermon about”, we have what must surely be the most Lutheran of all topics – Justification! As Luther said in the Smalcald Articles: The first and chief article is this: Jesus Christ, our God and Lord, died for our sins and was raised again for our justification . . .Upon this article everything that we teach and practice depends, in opposition to the pope, the devil, and the whole world. Therefore, we must be certain and not doubt this doctrine. Otherwise, all is lost, and the pope, the devil, and all adversaries win the victory and the right over us.” (SA II, I:1, 5; from Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, p. 263. CPH.)

Printed Sermon:  Pentecost 8-25 Proper 13-C Sermon