Martin Luther noted that when the Christian attempts anything for the sake of the Gospel “all types of strange events” occur.
If we would be Christians, therefore, we must surely expect and reckon upon having the devil with all his angels and the world as our enemies who will bring every possible misfortune and grief upon us. For where the Word of God is preached, accepted, or believed, and produces fruit, there the holy cross cannot be wanting.
And let no one think that he shall have peace; but he must risk whatever he has upon earth … possessions, honor, house, wife and children, body and life.
– Luther’s Large Catechism, Thy Will Be Done (Concordia Triglotta)
All Types of Strange Events at the Lutheran School of Theology
In the video below I share a few words about the “strange events” that have occurred at the Lutheran School of Theology. They are many and frequent …
- all types of physical illness
- challenging terrain, weather, and conditions for a school
- hardships and limited resources
- separation from families for long periods of time
- loneliness
- threats, physical attacks, and persecution against the Gospel
- and the incessant attacks of the evil one against their studies and calling to become a pastor
The Prayer of One or Two Christians is a Wall
Let us encourage one another and commit to interceding for the spread of the Gospel. The attacks are real and intense, but the prayers of one or two Christians can stand as a wall against the “unholy trinity” – the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh.
Again, here are some words from Martin Luther inviting us to pray that the Triune God’s will be done among us.
Hence there is just as great need, as in all the others, that we pray without ceasing:
“Dear Father, Thy will be done, not the will of the devil and of our enemies, nor of anything that would persecute and suppress Thy holy Word or hinder Thy kingdom; and grant that we may bear with patience and overcome whatever is to be endured on that account.
Such prayer, then, is to be our protection and defense. It is to repel and put down all that the devil can do against our Gospel. Over and against these attacks one or two Christians with this petition alone shall be our wall against which our enemies shall run and dash themselves to pieces.
Luther’s Large Catechism, Thy Will Be Done (Concordia Triglotta)
For a list of current prayer needs you can go to the Lutherans In Africa prayer page (here).
I thank God for His provision supplied by you. Your generous support, prayers, and many kindnesses have blessed us and the work of the Gospel. Come what may, we do belong to Jesus. We commend all into His hands.
If you would like to stay informed about our work with LIA in Africa, you can sign up for email updates here.
I also wanted to provide you with a way to sign up for the Lutherans in Africa email updates as well.
Thank you again for your generous support, encouragement, prayers and many kindnesses. We’ll commend all into His hands.
Come what may, we do belong to Jesus!
If you would like to continue to support the Missionary at Large position through East Bethlehem you can either give a charitable donation by check or through electronic giving. Here’s a link that will give you more information … Support Missionary at Large (here).