The Twin Steeples Podcast

The hymn that we are studying this weekend is hymn 363 in The Lutheran Hymnal. This hymn is unique in a couple of ways. First, it was written by a female hymnwriter, and second it was written by a Baptist hymnwriter. When we compare this hymn to a hymn by Paul Gerhardt or Martin Luther, we will find some very striking differences. This hymn will reflect a fervent faith in Jesus, and a devotion to Him. But it will communicate this in a more emotional simple way that is reflective of a more feminine style. This hymn does not carry the rigid or instructional character of a typical Lutheran hymn. 

The hymn beautifully points to the theme of Love. God's Love for us in Jesus and His work of salvation. It also points to the Christian's Spirit-worked response to that Love of God in our lives. We are awaked to sing "the sacred song." Our "hearts and tongues" are tuned to sing His praise. The prayer is that the whole world of sinners would be brought to "join the sacred song."

Yes, "God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8), and "we love Him because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19)

Thanks be to God for the love He has shown us in Jesus. May that knowledge of His love tune our heart to sing of our Redeemer's glorious name to the world around us!

Devotion

• Romans 8:26-30

 

Announcements

• Review
  • Long Term School Improvement/Growth Brainstorming Meeting 
• Upcoming
  
  • Ladies' Auxiliary
  • Daryl Holzinger Committal Service
  • Men’s Breakfast
  • Ladies’ Bible Study
  • Darlene Nelson Victory Service
  • Weekend Worship
  • Immanuel Building Committee

 

Prayer List 

• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Family of Daryl Holzinger
• Family of Darlene Nelson
• Barb Pfeiffer
• Judy Mielke
• Pastor Del Maas
• Passon Family
• Kentucky Preaching Station
• Mission in Togo

 

 

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 529 “I Leave All Things to God’s Direction”

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mankato, Minnesota on August 23, 2026. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.

 

Sermon Text: John 8:31-36 (NKJV)

Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. 32 “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” 33 They answered Him, “We are Abraham's descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can you say, ‘You will be made free’?” 34 Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 “And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. 36 “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.”

 

The Truth Shall Set You Free

1. The Truth That You Were in Bondage to Sin
2. The Truth That You Are Now a Child of God

This weekend our service will close with the singing of a unique hymn. The hymn is "Dear Lord to Your True Servants Give" which was written for a seminary graduation and is usually saved for the ordination or installation of a pastor. While this is certainly appropriate, and highlights the prayers we should offer on behalf of our pastors, there is also a broader use of this hymn. The servant described in the hymn is not limited to pastors or missionaries, but every Christian. Every Christian is called to be a witness to Jesus in our personal walks of life. The Great Commission of Jesus is not intended only for pastors. It is the Savior's call to all those whom He has made His own by faith.

Jesus said: "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)

Similarly, the Apostle Paul encourages all the Christians in Corinth: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Lord, bless our use of Your Word, both in Law and Gospel, that others may be brought to know and believe in You as their Savior from sin! And bless our worship this weekend, as we join our voices to sing Your praise and work to encourage our fellow believers! Amen.

 

Devotion

• Romans 8:18-25

 

Announcements

• Review
  • Back to School Night
  • ILS Opening Service
  • Church Council
• Upcoming
  
  • Men’s Breakfast
  • Ladies’ Bible Study
  • Weekend Worship
  • Board of Education
  • Ladies' Auxiliary

Prayer List 

• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Family of Daryl Holzinger
• Mary Schweim
• Immanuel Building Committee
• Pastor Raju in India

 

 

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 30 “Oh, that I Had a Thousand Voices”