Easter 7 • Acts 1:12–26 • June 1, 2014


Easter 7 • Acts 1:12–26 • June 1, 2014

By Paul R. Raabe Acts 1:12–26 narrates what the followers of Jesus did after his ascension. They remained in Jerusalem as Jesus had commanded (Acts 1:4). Luke names the eleven disciples and then summarizes that they were together in unity dedicated to prayer. “All these were continuously devoted (present participle) with one accord to prayer together with women, also ..

Innocent Suffering: A Lenten Thought

Innocent Suffering: A Lenten Thought


Innocent Suffering: A Lenten Thought

In the piety of Lenten self-reflection, the confession of our sin holds a prominent place. Especially for Lutherans who recognize that, as simul iustus et peccator, our confession of sin is comprehensive. The words of Isaiah 64 quickly become our own: “we have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like ..

New Review of Lessing’s Isaiah

New Review of Lessing’s Isaiah


New Review of Lessing’s Isaiah

The periodical published by the Institute for Biblical Research, known as “Bulletin for Biblical Research” (23/4, 2013), included a positive review of Reed Lessing’s commentary on Isaiah 40-55. Gary Smith of Bethel Seminary writes: “Overall, this is an outstanding and unique commentary with valuable lexical and syntactic notes to help those who need a little ..


Lent 4 • John 9:1–41 • April 3, 2011


Lent 4 • John 9:1–41 • April 3, 2011

By Paul Raabe John 9 is the appointed gospel lesson for the Fourth Sunday in Lent (Series A). The appointed Old Testament lesson works well with the gospel lesson, since Isaiah 42:14–21 announces both God’s promise to lead the blind and his rebuke of ancient Israel for its spiritual blindness. Jesus picks up this Isaianic ..