Christ the King (year C)- Luke 23:27-43

Many Lutherans and other Christians observe the last Sunday on the church calendar, the Sunday before Advent, as Christ the King Sunday. Although this observance is only a few decades old, the Holy Scriptures are filled with references to Christ's kingship. In addition, since ancient times, Christian theology has often spoken of the three offices or functions of Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. The readings for this day reflect this theme.

The Old Testament lesson from Malachi 3:13-18 refers to divine kingship indirectly. It speaks of a basic human option: serve evil (following natural human corruption) or serve good (transformed by divine grace).

The New Testament epistle reading is from Colossians 1:13-20. It speaks of the deliverance of believers from the dominion of evil into Christ's kingdom.

The Gospel from Luke 23:27-43 is set at Christ's crucifixion. Besides warnings and promises from Christ, there are repeated references to His kingship. Although crucified under the superscription Jesus Christ King of the Jews, He does not meet worldly expectations of a king because His kingdom is spiritual.  The penitent thief understands this and asks to be included in Christ's kingdom. May we also understand and accept Jesus' spiritual kingship in our lives!

Pentecost 23 (year C proper 28)- Malachi 4:1-6; Luke 21: 5-28

The readings for the Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost reflect the approaching end of the church year and look to the end of all things and righteous divine judgment.

Malachi 4:1-6 warns of righteous judgment upon the wicked but also contains hope for those who repent.

Psalm 98 is a hymn praising God as the righteous judge.

2 Thessalonians 3: 6-13 contains practical advice for Christian living in the world. Believers should avoid being idle and live as befits those with faith in Jesus Christ.

Luke 21:5-28 deals with the coming divine judgment upon the Temple, Jerusalem, and humanity. Calamities will take place in this world, and believers in Christ will face opposition, persecution, betrayal, and sometimes even death. Nevertheless, the followers of Christ are to remain faithful as they trust in His guiding presence and hope for final redemption.

Confessional Teachings on the Saints

 Around All Saints Day and All Souls Day, one finds many references to prayers for and to departed saints. Some Christians place great emphasis upon invoking the prayers of the faithful departed. However, confessional Lutherans maintain our traditional teachings which we consider agreeable to the Holy Scriptures and consistent with the best teachings of the ancient church.

First, let us consider Lutheran teachings about the role of the departed saints. In Article XXI.1-5 of the Augsburg Confession, it is said that our churches teach that the faith and examples of the saints may be honored and followed according to our callings in life. However, we are not to invoke the saints or call upon them for help. Such a practice is not taught in Scripture, and it contradicts biblical teachings that Jesus Christ is our Mediator and Advocate. Furthermore, regardless of the intentions of the practitioners, the cult of the saints has an inherent tendency to violate the first commandment against idolatry.

Secondly, let us consider Lutheran teachings about prayers for the departed in Article XXIV.94-96 of the Apology of the Augsburg Confession. The Lutheran Confessions do not reject prayers for the departed as an expression of affection and honor. However, we do reject turning the Eucharist or Lord's Supper into some sort of meritorious or propitiatory sacrifice for the souls of the departed. Furthermore, in many places, particularly in Article XII.15 of the Apology, Lutherans strongly reject indulgences supposedly applied to the dead. (By the way, although Roman Catholic theory and practice have been reformed over the years, indulgences are still significant.)

In summary, regarding the faithful departed. Lutheran doctrine and practice seek to follow Scripture and to maintain the best of the ancient catholic tradition. We respect those who have preceded us in faith, we seek to follow their good qualities, and we ask divine mercy upon the whole church of God, living and departed. However, we also seek to avoid unbiblical abuses which tend to creep into human practices, May God keep us strong in Christ-centered faith!