1. We know that death does not have the last word in Christ.
  2. If Jesus did not rise, then religion is just religion — a mere anthropological phenomenon.
  3. Christ Jesus brings his word and presence to where you are and he is even willing to do so through the likes of your personally present pastor.
  4. God wants his word of promise to be the only thing we bank on, the only thing we have confidence in.
  5. Luther's emphasis on the need for sinners to have preachers who can provide them with the comfort and support they need for their faith in Jesus Christ and life is as relevant today as it was in his time.
  6. Walther’s living legacy is his enduring teaching on how to distinguish the law and the gospel in the Church’s proclamation.
  7. What is undoubtedly true, however, is that St. Peter wasn’t left outside. He wasn’t left weeping. He was restored, as am I, as are you.
  8. A Christian is a man who desires to enter heaven not through his own goodness and works, but through the righteousness and works of Christ.
  9. Predestination, Jim knew, is no longer a frightening doctrine of mystery when you understand that God makes his choice about you in the simple word of God, given from one sinner to another.
  10. Even as he was dying, the heart of God poured itself out for the sake of sinners.
  11. The further up and further into the season of Epiphany we get, the bigger the grace of God in Christ is, the brighter the Light of Christ shines, and the more blessed we are in Jesus' epiphany for us.
  12. The lesson of Malachi reveals God’s love for his people. When the people ask for proof of God’s love, he reminds them of their election.