Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost At-Home Service for August 23

The revelation to Peter in this week’s Gospel reading was intended to bring the blessing of life. The way that the ministry of the church preserves life seems curious to many. To forgive, in the Name and in the place of Jesus, the sins of all those who are sorry for what they have done is nothing less than to separate them from that which causes death. To forgive sins does not reverse what has already happened; it brings life into the midst of the death that already exists. 

Follow along with the the At-home printed version of the Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost service.

Click here or on the image below to view the at-home version of the service.

Pastor Rike’s Sermon

The knowledge that Christ Jesus is the power of God was intended to be a blessing. Peter said, to Jesus, “You are the Christ [or Messiah], the Son of the living God.” And, Jesus responded by saying, “Blessed are you Simon, Son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven.”(Matthew 16:17) There are two ways the power revealed to Peter was intended as a blessing. The proclamation of the power of God at work in Christ Jesus creates community and brings life. 

Jesus referred to this blessing of community when he said to Peter, “On this rock I will build my church…” (Matthew 16:18) Jesus is the power. He’s the builder. Peter was authorized to sit in the driver’s seat and turn the key. 

Click here to read Pastor Rike’s entire sermon.

Video Options

Follow along with the service on video led by Pastor David Rike with music performed by Randy Broker

Click on the image below to view the video.