February Divine Service theme

How does each sermon connect to this theme?

“The goal of discipleship is not information, but transformation.”

Greg Ogden

Christian formation is not measured by how much biblical knowledge a person accumulates, but by how deeply the life of Christ takes shape within them. True discipleship, therefore, is evident not primarily in what we know, but in who we are becoming (inner authority) and how we live for the sake of others.

Throughout the month of February, each sermon will engage key Discipleship Essentials, inviting the congregation to reflect on what it means to follow Jesus in concrete and transformative ways. On the first Sunday, we will explore Jesus’ calling of His disciples and their answering the call, even when it proved disruptive and intrusive to their ordinary lives.

The second Sunday turns to Jesus’ teaching on oaths, raising the question of integrity in the life of a disciple. To follow Christ means speaking truth and becoming one whose life reflects a commitment to truthfulness rooted in character rather than external assurances.

On the third Sunday, we will engage the book of James, which challenges disciples to demonstrate visible faith and costly giving. James confronts the gap between belief and action, calling believers to a faith which expresses care for others, and concrete acts of

obedience.

February 18 marks the beginning of Lent, a season that invites deeper reflection on the Passion of Jesus Christ and the message of the cross. As we enter this sacred time, our focus turns toward self-examination, repentance, and renewed attentiveness to the cross. The final Sunday of the month will explore the three “lost” parables of Luke 15, highlighting God’s relentless pursuit of the lost and the call for disciples to participate in both seeking and celebrating restored relationships.

Taken together, these sermons invite us to understand discipleship as a dynamic journey of transformation. As we move through February, we are called to open ourselves anew to Christ’s forming work, trusting that faithful discipleship will shape us into people who reflect God’s love with integrity, generosity, and joy.

Wishing you a most blessed Lenten season,

John S. Schnabel