Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Scripture Text: Revelation 3:15–18

Online jigsaw

• Image  • Index of posts

  Click for audio of today's lesson.

From the Word: 15 I know your works: that you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were cold or hot. 16 So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will vomit you from my mouth. 17 Because you say, “I am rich and have become prosperous and need nothing,” but do not realize you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness not be revealed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. (Revelation 3:15–18)

From the Confessions: The Small Catechism

The Third Petition

Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

What does this mean?

The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it will also be done among us.

How is this done?

God’s will is done when he hinders and destroys every evil design and purpose of the devil, the world, and our sinful nature that would keep us from hallowing his name and prevent the coming of his kingdom. And God’s will is done when he strengthens us and keeps us steadfast in his Word and in faith to the end of our earthly lives. This is his good and gracious will.

Pulling It Together: It is God’s will that we find our satisfaction in him. When we are content with our deeds and religious devotion, we may feel satisfied but our attitude is bile in the throat of the Almighty. Tepid religiosity is a faith killer. Though we imagine ourselves rich in religion, and put on pious attire, and protest that it is we who see how the church ought to be, God’s will remains. He would have us obtain salve for our eyes so that we may see clearly, baptismal robes so that we are properly attired to walk with him, and his means so that we are rich in him. Beware, lest you become satisfied with your religion. May you find contentment in Christ alone.

Prayer: Awaken me, Lord, so that I am ready for your return. Amen.

Receive these Sola Devotions in weekday emails. Click here to fill out a quick and secure subscription form. 

Developed and used by Pastor Fred Baltz in his church in Galena, Illinois, this congregational resource book describes how a parish can host an “invite-able” event, as part of a larger evangelism initiative, energizing God’s people for the mission of Christ. Using a practical, step-by-step “how to” approach, The Invitation Project provides guidance, organization, and ideas, not simply to promote a single program of outreach, but to develop and inspire the overall outreach efforts of the congregation. 


Share this post


Click Here For Content Archives