Sure Foundation Lutheran Church

This message explores one of the most important writings of the Reformation — Martin Luther’s The Bondage of the Will. Written 500 years ago, this work helped clarify what Scripture teaches about human will, sin, and God’s saving grace through Jesus Christ. Because of sin, our wills are bound — we cannot choose or desire God on our own. But through Christ, God has set us free! Luther’s words remind us that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone — never by our works. Join us as we look at passages like Psalm 51:5, Romans 8:7-8, Galatians 5:17, and Romans 1:16-17 to see the freeing truth of the gospel: you have been redeemed, adopted, and made righteous in Christ. Sermon Highlights * 500th anniversary of The Bondage of the Will * What "bound will" means in Scripture * Why grace cannot be earned * How Christ frees us from the law's condemnation * The joy of wearing Christ's righteousness

What does it mean to wrestle with God? In this powerful sermon, we explore the life of Jacob—the “grabber,” the deceiver, the runaway—and how God transformed him into Israel, a man of faith. From stealing his brother’s birthright to physically wrestling with God, Jacob’s story shows us what it looks like to hold onto God’s promises even when life feels uncertain. Discover how God meets us in our struggles, how prayer becomes our wrestling mat, and how He changes our hearts through His grace. Whether you’re facing fear, doubt, or waiting on God’s promises, this message reminds you that God is real, personal, and faithful—and that He blesses those who cling to Him. 📖 Genesis 32:22–32

What was your first word? Maybe it was “Mama” or “Dada.” But today we are speaking about another set of words that you learn pretty early in life, “Thank you.” In this message based on Luke 17:11–19, we look at the story of the ten lepers and how Jesus’ mercy changed their lives forever. True gratitude goes deeper than good manners—it flows from understanding mercy. When we realize that we don’t deserve God’s blessings and yet He gives them freely, our hearts overflow with thanksgiving. Entitlement kills gratitude, but recognizing God’s mercy gives birth to worship. Discover: 🙏 Why gratitude is more than just saying “thanks.” 💔 How sin isolates us like leprosy once did. 💡 What it means to live in the place of mercy. ❤️ How Jesus’ generosity leads us to true worship. Join us as we explore how Jesus heals, forgives, and restores, giving us every reason to say—“Thank you, Jesus!” 📖 Bible Text: Luke 17:11–19

In this sermon from Luke 17:1–10, we explore Jesus’ powerful teaching on temptation, faith, and forgiveness. Within the context of Luke 15–17, Jesus reminds His disciples that forgiveness is not optional—it’s central to our identity as followers of Christ. Jesus uses the striking image of a millstone to show the seriousness of leading others into sin, especially those new in faith. He commands us to forgive—again and again—just as He forgives us. Even when forgiveness feels impossible, faith gives us the strength to uproot bitterness and cast it into the sea. Through this message, you’ll be reminded that: ✅ Forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling. ✅ Faith, even the size of a mustard seed, is powerful enough to heal relationships. ✅ Your identity in Christ means you are both forgiven and a forgiver. ✅ Humility protects us from pride even when we forgive. As we live out our faith, Jesus calls us to remember: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” 📖 Main Text: Luke 17:1–10 🙏 Key Themes: Forgiveness, Faith, Grace, Humility, Discipleship, Identity in Christ 🕊️ Application: Decide ahead of time to forgive—because you have been forgiven.

In this sermon, we travel back to Pompeii, a city that once felt untouchable in its wealth and comfort—until Mt. Vesuvius erupted and exposed just how fragile that sense of security really was. This is similar to the sense of the security that the Jewish people felt at the time of the prophet Amos. Amos’ sobering words indicate this, “Woe to you who are complacent…”, this sermon challenges us to examine where we place our confidence today. Just like ancient Israel, we too can be lulled into spiritual complacency by wealth, comfort, and the illusion of control. Yet God, in His mercy, refuses to leave us asleep in that false security. Through His Word, He calls us to repentance, wakes us from spiritual slumber, and points us to the only true safety and security—Jesus Christ. Join us as we reflect on the dangers of misplaced trust, the urgency of repentance, and the unshakable hope we have in the Savior who never grew complacent in rescuing us.