Sexagesimae 3 Feb 2012

Dr Lutz Ackermann (Friedenskirche, Hillbrow)

The word of the Lord (Jes 55: 6-12) Turn to the LORD and pray to him, now that he is near. Let the wicked leave their way of life and change their way of thinking. Let them turn to the LORD, our God; he is merciful and quick to forgive. "My thoughts," says the LORD, "are not like yours, and my ways are different from yours. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways and thoughts above yours. "My word is like the snow and the rain that come down from the sky to water the earth. They make the crops grow and provide seed for planting and food to eat. So also will be the word that I speak--- it will not fail to do what I plan for it; it will do everything I send it to do. "You will leave Babylon with joy; you will be led out of the city in peace. The mountains and hills will burst into singing, and the trees will shout for joy. (Isa 55:6-12)

If you want a relationship, you have to communicate (talk). Does God speak? Do we listen?

2013 REV. DR LUTZ ACKERMANN FRIEDENSKIRCHE (CHURCH OF PEACE), HILLBROW

The Word of the Lord: how does the Word of God relate to the bible? equals (injustice to both became flesh not a book, printed letters on a page Jn 1:14), static or dynamic (discussion relationship possible) contains, becomes Hear the word of the Lord when we listen in faith! (dusty copy on shelf, arbitrary & exchangeable commodity in the store of religious thought, a study object). Back to our text. A few observations: 1. The Word of the Lord is near to us Essence of Jesus preaching (Mk 1:15 time come kingdom here turn believe good news): it stares you in the face "God's message is near you, on your lips and in your heart"---that is, the message of faith that we preach. (Rom 10:8) 2. The Word of the Lord turns people around Again, Jesus: metanoia; last week: Matthew. Why the need to turn around 3. The Word of the Lord is so different! "My thoughts," says the LORD, "are not like yours, and my ways are different from yours. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways and thoughts above yours. God: the totally other 4. The Word of the Lord is efficacious and powerful Gen 1:3 (Let there be light and there was)
2013 REV. DR LUTZ ACKERMANN FRIEDENSKIRCHE (CHURCH OF PEACE), HILLBROW

Heb 4:12 The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. 5. The Word of trustworthy the Lord is faithful and

No fantasies of inerrancy or infallibility. But a sure promise, a deep ring of truth and, most importantly: the shepherds voice (my sheep know my voice) 6. The Word of the Lord is nourishing Images of water, fertility, growth and harvest. Jesus: 'Human beings cannot live on bread alone, but need every word that God speaks.' (Mt 4:4) "My food," Jesus said to them, "is to obey the will of the one who sent me and to finish the work he gave me to do. (Jn 4:34) Not just listening to the word but doing (living) the word! (walk the talk) 7. The Word of the Lord brings joy When even the mountains start dancing! Lets get practical: Know the word! Know it! Know him! Read the bible every day! (Watchwords) Take a bible shower! (Audio) Pray the word! Amen.
2013 REV. DR LUTZ ACKERMANN FRIEDENSKIRCHE (CHURCH OF PEACE), HILLBROW