Serving with Joy, Lesson 2: Jacob’s Death and Burial

The text for this lesson is Genesis 49:29–50:14. Key Point Jacob requested burial in Canaan, rather than in Egypt, because Canaan was the land to which God had promised to send the One through whom all the families of the earth would be blessed—Jesus (Genesis 12:1–3; 46:2–4). Law: How we deal with death—our own and … Continue Reading

Serving with Joy, Lesson 8: Joseph, the Father

The text for this lesson is Matthew 2:13–15, 19–23; Luke 11:11–12; Ephesians 6:1–4; 1 Thessalonians 2:11–12. Key Point The heavenly Father used dutiful Joseph to deliver His Son from death at the hands of Herod to preserve Him for death in due time on the cross. Law: Raising a family demands sacrifices of money, time, … Continue Reading

Old Testament 2, Lesson 2: Joseph’s Troubles

The text for this lesson is Genesis 39 Key Point The Lord was with Joseph and, through him, saved Joseph’s family and others. God promises to be with us in every situation, and through His Son, Jesus, a descendant of Joseph’s brother Judah, God saves us from our sin. Law: I sin when I do … Continue Reading

Old Testament 2, Lesson 3: Joseph Feeds Egypt

The text for this lesson is Genesis 40–41 Key Point God used Joseph to save His people, all Egypt, and other nations from famine. He sent His Son, Jesus, to save all humanity from sin, death, and the devil. Law: My sin causes suffering for me and for my neighbor, and I cannot take care … Continue Reading

Old Testament 2, Lesson 4: Joseph Forgives

The text for this lesson is Genesis 40–41 Key Point Joseph revealed himself to his brothers and forgave them. Our Lord Jesus Christ reveals Himself to us and forgives us in His Holy Word and Sacraments. Law: The sin I refuse to confess troubles my conscience and separates me from others and from God. Gospel: … Continue Reading

New Testament 1, Lesson 5: An Angel Visits Joseph

The text for this lesson is Matthew 1:18–25 Key Point Just as the angel proclaimed to Joseph that Mary would bear an infant who is the Son of God, the Savior, so God proclaims to us in His Word that this same Jesus is our Savior from sin and death. Law: Relying on my own … Continue Reading

New Testament 1, Lesson 6: The Birth of Jesus

The text for this lesson is Luke 2:1–20 Key Point A Savior is born to you! He is Christ the Lord. Law: Because of sin, I am afraid and helpless before God and deserve to die. Gospel: God sent His Son, Jesus, to save me from sin and death, and He makes me His own … Continue Reading

New Testament 1, Lesson 9: The Boy Jesus in the Temple

The text for this lesson is Luke 2:41–52 Key Point As a boy, Jesus was found in His Father’s house. In God’s house, I hear His Word, learn that Jesus is my Savior, and receive His gifts of forgiveness and salvation. Law: Because of sin, I cannot recognize who Jesus is. Gospel: Through Baptism and … Continue Reading