The Gospel and Worship

Too many Christians attend worship on Sunday morning without ever hearing the Gospel. As an example, not too long ago one of our members recommended to me a television sermon as one of the best sermons ever.  Upon this recommendation I watched the sermon.  The preacher was certainly engaging.  He quoted the Scripture and spoke elegantly about the demands of obedience that God places upon us. He was not flashy but engaging and pleasant to listen to.  However, when the hour was over I was astounded that this highly recommended sermon had been Christ-less.  This led me to ask, “How could a Christian preacher be satisfied with preaching a Christ-less sermon?” And “How could one of the members of our church recommend this as one of the best sermons ever?”

The sad fact is that many Christian sermons, songs and worship services have no specific aim of presenting Christ and His cross.  They may speak of an awesome God and praise His holy Name but never speak of Jesus’ sacrifice.  They may direct us to holy living and care for the less fortunate but never speak of forgiveness, life and salvation.

Lutheran worship and preaching is always focused on Jesus and His cross.  It always proclaims Law and Gospel.  The liturgy is designed specifically for this purpose and every proper Lutheran sermon must have this as its goal. If you leave church without having the forgiveness of sins through faith in Christ clearly presented then you have not heard what God wants you to hear and you have wasted your time.