PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS

Author: revblanken

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Romans 6:1–11 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Epistle Reading of the Sixth Sunday after Trinity, Romans 6:1–11, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    I. An answer to the objection as though this doctrine of justification by faith gives a reason to sin. (v. 1–11)

    Annotated Text

    1. What shall we1 say to this? (Namely, to that which the godless deduce and conclude from what is said in Romans 5:20) * Ought we then to persist in sin (and continue wantonly), so that grace be all the more powerful? (So that God might have an occasion to pour out His grace and mercy all the more richly upon us?)

    1 Greek: “now” (since we are assured of so rich a grace). [The Greek text has οὖν, literally, “therefore.”]

    * Galatians 2:17

    2. May that be far (from us, that we should say or think such, much less that we do such! For) How should we1 want to live in sin, we2 who have died to it? (In a spiritual manner, that it has just as little right over us as over a dead man, and that accordingly we ought noy allow sin to live, work, and rule in us.)

    1 Greek: “still further”

    2 Greek: “we as those who”

    * Galatians 6:14 (1 Peter 2:24)

    3. Do you * not know1, that all who of us2 who have been baptized in (and upon) Jesus Christ (and were incorporated into Him in a spiritual manner) were baptized into His death? (So that we become partakers of the power of His death in no other way than if we ourselves were already dead to sins. Through such power of the death Christ, not only were our sins forgiven us, but we also received the Holy Spirit, who curbs and puts sin to death in us. Luther: “We are baptized into Christ’s death so that we die as He did; for we do not die completely to sin unless the flesh also dies bodily.”)

    * Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12 (2 Corinthians 4:11)

    1 Greek: “or” [ἢ]

    2 Greek: “as many of us” [ὅσοι]

    4. Therefore, we were each * buried with Him (in a spiritual manner) through Baptism into death so that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father (through the glorious power of God, which He allowed to be seen in the resurrection of Christ), † in this way we also ought to walk in a new life (henceforth lead a new life and no longer a sinful life. The holy apostle is referring to the practice that was used in the first apostolic Church, that those who were baptized were completely immersed under the water and thus, as it were, buried, and afterward were drawn out again of the water, and thus, as it were, raised again, to indicate, that they had become partakers of the power of the death and resurrection of Christ, and that they ought to die to sin, but on the other hand, walk in new holy life).

    * Romans 8:10

    † Ephesians 4:23; Colossians 3:8ff.; 1 Peter 2:1, 4:1–2; Hebrews 12:1 (Colossians 2:12)

    5. Therefore, we were planted together with Him to a similar death (that through Baptism we are planted into Him in such way that we are like Him in death, because we died to sin, Romans 6:2), so we will also be1 [planted with Him] (our beloved Savior) [in] * the resurrection.

    * 2 Timothy 2:11f. (John 15:5; Colossians 3:1ff.)

    1 Greek: “For if we are planted together with him (as it were, grafted into Him [σύμφυτοι]) according to the likeness of His death (that its power is reckoned and imparted to us), so it follows that we also ought to be planted together with Him in the likeness of His resurrection (and its power show itself in us).”

    6. Because we know, that our old man (our sinful flesh with its lusts and cravings) was crucified together with Him * (curbed, put to death, and made nothing; consequently its power to condemn us and to rule in us has been taken away through Christ’s suffering and death), so that the sinful body (the body of sin, the inherited sin, which poisons us in body and soul, and itself rules in all members) might cease (become powerless and no longer have reign [over us]), that we henceforth not serve sin.

    * Galatians 5:24 (Colossians 3:5)

    7. For whoever has died (has died in a spiritual manner to sin, Romans 6:2, and has rendered satisfaction to righteousness through one’s own or another’s death reckoned to him), he has been justified (made free and exonerated) from sin (that inherited sin and also his committed sins are no longer reckoned to him, so that sin also can no longer have dominion over him).

    8. Now if we have died (died to sin) with Christ (in a spiritual manner), so we believe that we also will live (in a new and spiritual manner) with him (because we have been raised by Him to a spiritual life).

    (Romans 8:17; Galatians 5:24, 2:20)

    9. And we know that Christ, being raised from the dead, * henceforth does not die (but rather remains in the new heavenly life always and eternally, into which He entered through the resurrection); death henceforth does not rule over Him (as also previously death did not rule over Him, because He died not under compulsion, but rather willingly).

    10. For in that He died, He died to sin * once for all (so that with His single sacrifice He might make full atonement for the sin of the entire world, which He had taken upon Himself, and also that He might abolish it  and destroy it, Hebrews 9:26); but in that He (now)† lives (in highest and heavenly joy), He lives to God (with God, His heavenly Father, and to the honor of God the Father, Philippians 2:11).

    * Hebrews 9:28

    † Isaiah 53:10 (Hebrews 7:16)

    11. In this way, you also consider yourselves, that you (with Christ) are dead to sin (and therefore you should no longer have any fellowship with it), and alive to God in Christ Jesus, our Lord (in whom you now ought to lead a new heavenly life before God, not only for a time, but rather continually, in spiritual joy which comes from a clear conscience and irreproachable conduct).

    (Galatians 2:19; Colossians 3:3)

    Useful Applications

    I. CORRECTION: The doctrine of justification and salvation which comes by grace only through faith in Christ ought not tempt us to sin, as though grace thereby would become all the more powerful, rather, it ought to restrain us from sin, because in Baptism we have renounced sin and, so to speak, have died with Christ so that as Christ was raised from the dead, so also we ought to walk in a new life. (v. 1–4)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Isaiah 42:1–9 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Old Testament reading of the First Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah 42:1–9, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    Note: This is the appointed reading from the Lutheran Missal Project.

    I. A promise of God the heavenly Father and a prophecy concerning Christ as to what kind of office He will have and how He will carry it out. (v. 1–9)

    Annotated Text

    1. Behold, this is * My Servant (although Christ, according to His divine nature, is equal to God the Father in essence, power, and honor and also according to His human nature has received divine attributes by virtue of the personal union, nevertheless, for our sake, He has become the servant of God the Father through His humiliation, Philippians 2:7), whom I uphold;1 and (this is) My Elect (the one whom I have chosen for the work of redemption from eternity past), in † whom My soul has good pleasure. I have given Him My Spirit (without any measure, so that He should rest fully on Him, Isaiah 11:2, John 3:34), He will bring forth justice (how a man must become righteous before God and be blessed) among the Gentiles (through the preaching of the Gospel).

    * Matthew 12:18

    1 Hebrew: “I grasp Him and support Him” (see Exodus 17:12). Thus, in Matthew 12[:18–21] is the meaning only expressed.

    † Matthew 3:17, 17:5; 2 Peter 1:17 (Isaiah 49:6)

    2. He will not cry out nor call (Christ will not establish a worldly kingdom in which there is much turmoil and unrest, Luke 17:20), and His voice will not be heard in the streets (He will conduct Himself in humility and in the lowly form of a servant, Philippians 2:7).

    (Matthew 12:19)

    3. The * bruised reed He will not break (He will not further trouble contrite and broken hearts, but much more comfort them and bless them), and the smoldering wick (the little light of weak faith in the one who wants to despair on account of his sins) He will not quench (He will show Himself gentle toward those who labor and are burdened, Matthew 11:28–29, and He will bear with their weaknesses with patience). He will teach to keep the justice (which counts before God) truthfullly1 (He will also instruct those who have become righteous through faith in Him as to how henceforth they ought to serve God the Lord in holiness and righteousness, Luke 1:74–75).

    * Matthew 12:20; Psalm 34:19 (Matthew 9:12ff.)

    1 Hebrew: “to bring forth to firm conviction” (that is, “perform.” Therefore, it is also given as “unto victory” or “victorious” [εἰς νῖκος] in Matthew 12[:20].

    4. He will be neither sullen nor dreadful (Luther: “He will not be harsh or irascible and sour, but rather friendly, gentle, and benevolent”), until He establishes justice on earth;1 and the islands will wait (there will also be far remote Gentile peoples called to His kingdom, who dwell on the islands) for His Law (for the doctrine of the Gospel).

    (Jeremiah 23:5; Matthew 12:21)

    1 Hebrew: “He will not become distressed (that is, disgruntled, Isaiah 61:3), nor retreat, until He establishes justice in the land (of Israel); thereafter, etc.”

    5. Thus says God, the Lord, who created and spread out heaven, who made the earth and its vegetation, who gives breath to the people who are on it and spirit (life) to those who go on it:

    6. I, the Lord (God the Father) have called (I have ordained You for this, that You shall carry out the work of redemption) You (My beloved Son, Christ) with righteousness (in such manner that You will render a complete payment to My righteousness, and obtain the perfect righteousness that counts before Me for the human race), and I will grasp You by the hand (as You contend against death, sin, devil, and hell), and I will keep you, and I will have You given as a covenant (as Mediator of the New Testament or Covenant) among the people1 (that You establish and confirm them through Your blood), as Light * to the Gentiles (that You bring not only the Jews but also the Gentiles through the light of the Gospel into the light of the saving knowledge of God and their Savior);

    1 The people of Israel (see Romans 9:4, 15:8; Acts 3:25).

    * Isaiah 9:2, 49:6, 60:1 (Daniel 9:24; Luke 2:32; Romans 5:19; Romans 8:2ff.)

    7. that You shall open the eyes of the blind (those stuck in spiritual blindness), and lead the prisoners from the prison (that You redeem them from the curse of the Law, as well as death and eternal condemnation) and those who * sit in darkness (who lack the true knowledge of God in Christ), from the prison (in which no light lightens or shines).

    * Matthew 4:16 (Isaiah 35:5, 61:1; Luke 1:79; Acts 26:18)

    8. * I am the Lord (who alone am the only true self-subsisting God), that is My (proper) name; † and I will give My honor to no other (false god), nor My praise to idols.

    * Exodus 3:15

    † Isaiah 48:11 (Exodus 6:3; Psalm 83:19)

    9. Behold what shall come I proclaim to you beforehand,1 and I proclaim new things (of which no one could have surmised); before they come up (spring forth and flourish), I let you hear of them (Here, the promise properly speaking is to be understood of the coming of the Messiah, who in the prophet Zechariah 6:12 is called “Zemah,” that is, a “Branch”).

    (Isaiah 41:26)

    1 Hebrew: “Behold, the first things (which I had previously allowed to be spoken, e.g., the conquest of Canaan, the kings of Israel, etc.) have come, and what is new (that is, what has not yet come), etc.” See Isaiah 43:19.

    Useful Applications

    I. COMFORT: That all repentant, troubled, and broken hearts (who are like a bruised reed and a smoldering wick) ought to be raised up, comforted, and made joyful by their Savior Christ from His holy Word. (v. 3–4)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Matthew 3:13–17 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Holy Gospel of the Baptism of Our Lord (Wednesday of the First Sunday after Epiphany), Matthew 3:13–17, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    III. The history of the Baptism of Christ. (v. 13–17)

    Annotated Text

    13. At that time came Jesus from Galilee (from Nazareth, where He had been reared by His parents, Luke 2:51) to the Jordan to John (He did not send for Him and demand him to come to Him as His servant, but rather went Himself to him), that He might allow Himself to be baptized by him. (For although Christ had no need of baptism for His own person because He was altogether without sin [Hebrews 4:15], yet because He had laid upon Himself our sin, John 1:29, He also wanted for our sake to allow Himself to be baptized in order to drown our sin in the Jordan, indeed, to cast it into the depth of the sea, Micah 7:19, and sanctify the Jordan and all waters through contact with His holy and life-giving flesh for our saving baptism. )

    (Mark 1:9; Luke 3:21)

    14. But John opposed Him (He by no means wanted to allow it) and said, “I indeed need to be baptized (and washed of sin through Your blood and Your Holy Spirit) by You (as the lesser by the greater), and you come to me (that I should baptize You, when you are the Lord, the Creator, the Holy One, and Righteous One, but I am the servant, the creature, the sinner, and the unrighteous one)?

    15. But Jesus answered and said to him, “Let it thus be (in the present estate of my humiliation) now (that I be baptized by you); in this way it befits us to fulfill all righteousness (it befits Me, as the ordained Mediator, that I not only acquire and bring back again the lost perfect righteousness to the human race through My suffering and death, Daniel 9:24, 1 Corinthians 1:30, 2 Corinthians 5:21, but also that I sanctify the means ordained by God through which that same righteousness is offered to men and is appropriated to faith, among which is also the Sacrament of Holy Baptism; therefore, it befits Me to accept baptism, but you to impart it to Me.1 Luther: “All righteousness is fulfilled when we renounced all our righteousness and honor so that God only is regarded as the One who is righteous and who makes believers righteous. John does this when He lays aside His own righteousness and wants to be baptized and justified by Christ as a sinner. Christ also does this when He does not take up His own righteousness and honor, but rather allows Himself to be baptized and put to death, as any other sinner”).” Then he allowed it to Him (then John obeyed Christ so that he baptized Him).

    (Matthew 5:17; Galatians 4:4; Philippians 2:8)

    1 † The baptism of Christ was a part of His mediatorial office, according to which He also voluntarily submitted Himself to this will of His Father according to Zechariah 6:13, and thereby He presented a new pledge of His further, not yet carried out, perfect obedience; consequently, He brought about for us men all the gracious good pleasure of God, in particular the divine power of the ordained means of grace, above all, Holy Baptism, Psalm 40:9.

    16. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately He went up from the water (for at Christ’s baptism such admonition and teaching were not necessary which John was accustomed to use with other baptizands); and behold, then the heaven opened up over Him (it was seen that the heaven parted over Christ, and a bright luminous beam descended from heaven upon Christ to indicate that He is a Teacher from God who has come down from heaven, John 3:2, who through His mediatorial office would open heaven, Ephesians 1:10, and that the door of heaven is also opened to us through Holy Baptism, 1 Peter 3:21). And John saw (in this light) the Spirit of God (the Holy Spirit, the third person in the Godhead), as a dove (in bodily form as a dove, which is not a natural dove and also is not the mere external form of a dove, but rather a special creature of the Holy Spirit like a dove),1 descending and upon Him (Christ) coming (and also remaining upon Him, not as if Christ previously had previously not been partaking of the Holy Spirit; but rather, through this external descent, the inward dwelling of the Holy Spirit was indicated, that He received the Spirit not according to measure, but rather in the highest fullness, John 3:34, and that He is the one who baptized with the Holy Spirit, John 1:33).

    (Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32)

    1 * And thus, this description is not to be understood only as a likeness to a gradually falling cloud.

    17. And behold, a (distinguished, clear, and majestic) * voice (God the Father) from heaven spoke down (allowed itself to be heard from the same light), “This is My beloved Son, (whom I have begotten from eternity from My own essence according to His divinity, Psalm 2:7, and whom I now present to the entire world, especially to My people Israel, as their Savior in a personally assumed human nature and in the freely undertaken form a servant [Philippians 2:7])1 in whom I have good pleasure (through whom I will fulfill My gracious will of redemption of the human race, and in whom, My beloved Son, I will love all who believe in Him, Ephesians 1:6).”

    * Matthew 17:5; Mark 1:11, 9:7 (Matthew 12:18; 1 Peter 1:17; Colossians 1:13; Isaiah 42:1)

    1 † For there is no doubt that all this happened publicly and before many people who were present.

    Useful Applications

    III. DOCTRINE: Concerning the highly praised Holy Trinity, which is revealed here publicly: God the Father through the voice from heaven, God the Son in His assumed humanity, according to which He received baptism, and of which the Father said, “This is My beloved Son, etc.,” and God the Holy Spirit in the visible form of a dove. (v. 16–17) COMFORT: O blessed water-bath which the Son of God has sanctified in Himself! (v. 15ff.) COMFORT: Yet, even more comforting is this, that the Father also assures us of His good pleasure in Him. (v. 17)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Romans 12:1–6a from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Holy Gospel of the First Sunday after Epiphany, Luke 2:41–52, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    I. A report, how Christians ought to give themselves entirely to God the Lord, live according to this commandment, and keep themselves from the godless world. (v.1–2)

    II. Some rules concerning various good works which one chiefly ought to pay heed to in private matters toward one another. (v. 3–21)

    Annotated Text

    1. I admonish you,1 (you my) beloved brothers, through the mercy of God (which He has shown you in His Son Christ Jesus, the only Savior and Mediator), that you (as spiritual priests) * that you give (present) your bodies (and souls) as a sacrifice that is living (not taken from slaughtered animals, but rather made alive through the Holy Spirit), holy (sanctified through Christ’s blood) and pleasing to God (through faith), which (sacrifice) is your rational (arranged according to the Word of God, and grounded upon the many benefits previously adduced) worship (such a worship, which is moved from a heart enlightened and indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and not consisting in external Levitical ceremonies, but rather is carried out in the Spirit and in truth, John 4:23. Luther: “St. Paul here calls all sacrifices, works, and worship irrational when they happen without faith and the knowledge of God”).

    1 Greek: “Therefore” (or “according to such”) [οὖν]. This is a little word of conclusion whereby Paul derives special Christian duties from the doctrine of justification by faith as he did in general in Romans 6:1ff; cf. 2 Corinthians 6:1ff.

    * Romans 6:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:3 (1 Peter 2:5)

    2. And do not conform yourselves to this world (do not be minded as the children of the world who only strive after how they may please men and at the same time place God’s favor away from their eyes), but rather be changed * through the renewal of your mind (put on a different mind than the children of the world have; give room and place to the Holy Spirit that He may renew your understanding and heart more and more through the renewal of the Divine image), that you may prove (recognize and learn) † that which is the good, the pleasing, and the perfect will of God (as He has revealed it to us in His Word, according to which your spiritual sacrifices offered in Christ to God are pleasing to Him).

    * Ephesians 4:23

    † Ephesians 5:10, 17 (1 John 2:15; Philippians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Wisdom 9:10)

    3. For I say through the grace which has been given to me (as an apostle of Christ), to each among you, that no one ought to consider himself more than is fit for him to consider (that no one think of himself too highly out from pride); but rather that he consider himself with moderation (remain within his limits, and not ascribe to himself to much, nor entangle himself in things too high), each, according to * God has divided the measure of faith (according to as God has distributed to each His saving knowledge and His gifts).

    * 1 Corinthians 7:17, 12:11; Ephesians 4:7

    4. For in like manner, as we have many members in * one body, but not all members have one business (or performance);

    * 1 Corinthians 12:2; Ephesians 4:25

    5. in this way we who are many are * one body in Christ (who is the Head in this spiritual body); but among one another (under this Head) is one (a true believer) a member of the other.

    * 1 Corinthians 12:27 (1 Corinthians 10:17)

    6. And * has various gifts (gifts of grace, in particular the ability to serve others) according to the grace (gracious distribution, Ephesians 4:7ff.), which has been given to us.

    * 1 Corinthians 12:4 (1 Peter 4:10)

    Useful Applications

    I. CORRECTION: That we ought to give ourselves entirely to God, with our body and soul, as a living, holy, and pleasing sacrifice, through the rejection of the godless world and through the renewal of the Holy Spirit. (v. 1–2) [There are no applications for v. 3–6.]

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Luke 2:41–52 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Holy Gospel of the First Sunday after Epiphany, Luke 2:41–52, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    IV. The disputation of the twelve-year-old boy Jesus with the teachers in the temple. (v. 42–52)

    Annotated Text

    41. And His parents went every year to Jerusalem for the * Passover (to celebrate it according to God’s ordinance).

    * Exodus 34:23; Deuteronomy 16:16 (Exodus 23:15, 17)

    42. And when He (the Lord Christ) was twelve-years-old (at which time the children were gradually encouraged unto the public observance of the Law), they (the parents with their child Jesus) went up to Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast.

    43. And when the days (appointed for the celebration of the Passover, namely the seven days of unleavened bread, Exodus 34:18) were completed,1 and they returned to the house, the child Jesus remained at Jerusalem, and His parents2 did not know (that He had remained behind).

    1 Greek: “But when they had gone up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast and had fully kept these (feast) days.” [Read this verse continuously from v. 42]

    2 Greek: “Joseph and His mother” (So it is also to be understood in v. 41)

    44. But they supposed (when they missed the Child that) He was among the companions (who had gone up with them from Nazareth in great numbers and were still behind), and they went (they returned [toward Nazareth]) a day’s journey (far), and they sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances.

    45. And when they did not find Him, they went back to Jerusalem and sought Him.

    46. And it came to pass after three days, they found Him in the temple (in an auxiliary building in the temple, in which there was a school) sitting among the midst of the teachers so that He could hear them (as they explained God’s Word) and asking them questions (not because He had need of their instruction, but rather that He might have an opportunity to instruct them).

    47. And * all of those who heard Him, were astonished at His understanding and His answers1 (over His highly-informed answer, over the wisdom that was seen in His answer).

    * Matthew 7:28; Mark 1:22 (John 7:15)

    2 Greek: “the answers (He gave)”

    48. And when they (His parents) saw Him, they were appalled (they marveled to the highest degree over it, what this meant that such a Child should have dared to presume to speak with all the most learned men about such high and important matters). And His mother said to Him, “My Son, * why have you done this to us (that you have made so much care and anxiety for us with Your remaining behind)? Behold, Your Father and I have sought you with pains.”

    * Genesis 12:18

    49. And He said to them, “Why have you sought me (what need was there of the seeking)? Do you not know that I must be in that which is My Father’s? (that I must wait for that which My heavenly Father has laid upon Me?)”

    (John 4:34, 17:4)

    50. And they did not understand the word that He spoke with them.

    51. And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was submissive to them (He did what His father and mother asked Him, and what He could do to please them). And His mother * kept all these words in her heart.

    * Luke 2:19; Genesis 37:11

    52. And Jesus * increased in wisdom,1 age (stature, height, and size), and grace with God and men (he was a child dear, sweet, and pleasant child to everyone, which thus happened through God’s special grace).

    * 1 Samuel 2:26 (Acts 7:20)

    1 † This is to be understood of the human nature in the state of His humiliation, to which also His age belonged.

    Useful Applications

    IV. CORRECTION: Because Christ, the Son of God Himself, was obedient and submissive to His mother and foster father, much more should all other children of men be obedient and submissive to their parents. (v. 51) DOCTRINE: Catechesis is a work sanctified by Christ Himself and is the highest edifying work. (v. 46–47) CORRECTION: Christ’s love for the temple also shows where one ought to fondly go and keep the children. (v. 42, 49ff.)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Isaiah 60:1–6 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Old Testament Reading of the Epiphany of Our Lord, Isaiah 60:1–6, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    I. The introduction and content. (v. 1)

    II. Explanation in what great multitude and how hastily the Gentiles will shall come to the knowledge of the true God (v. 2–16)

    Annotated Text

    1. Arise * (hereby the Lord encourages the almost-despairing Jewish Church through the prophet, that she should look around herself freshly and joyfully at the time of Christ, according to the great benefits that Christ brings to her with His coming), become light; * for † your Light1 (the saving knowledge of God in Christ) comes,2 and the glory of the Lord (of Christ who is little known and esteemed) rises over you (My people).

    * Isaiah 52:1

    1 * “let yourself be enlightened, receive this Light” (see Isaiah 59:21)

    † Isaiah 9:2 (John 1:5, 9ff.)

    2 * “to you especially and first of all” (see Micah 5:3; Acts 13:46)

    2. For behold, * darkness (blindness) covers the earth, and gloom covers the people (that they do not know God and His will); but The Lord (Christ) rises over you, and His glory shines over you.

    * Exodus 10:23

    3. And the Gentiles will walk in your * Light (they will be enlightened through the Word of the Gospel) and the kings (will also walk) in the splendor (of the Gospel), which rises over you.

    * Matthew 4:16 (Revelation 21:24)

    4. * Lift up your eyes and see all around: These (Gentiles) all come together to you. Your sons will come from afar, and your daughters † will be reared at your side (through faith in Christ many Gentiles will become your sons and daughters, not according to the flesh, but rather according to the promise [cf. Galatians 3:29], which is far more glorious than fleshly preference).

    * Isaiah 49:18ff.

    † Isaiah 66:12

    5. Then will you see your light and break forth1 (from joy), and your heart will marvel2 and spread out (Luther: “as the streams of water flow and spread out”), when * the multitude by the sea converts to you (the Gentiles who dwell by the sea and on the islands), and the power of the Gentiles comes to you.

    1 Hebrew: “Then you will see it with your eyes when you spread yourself out as a river”

    2 Hebrew: “You will indeed be startled (over it), but nevertheless you will also rejoice from the heart”

    * Matthew 8:11 (Acts 11:18)

    6. Then the multitude of camels shall cover you (The Gentiles, who ride upon camels will come to you to learn the knowledge of God in Christ), the runners (the small camels which are called ‘runners’ on account of their fast running) of Midian and Ephah (the inhabitants of whose lands come from Midian, whom Abraham conceived by Ketura, Genesis 25:2–4). They will all come from * Sheba (from Arabia), (receive Christ, and to Him) bring gold and incense (promote the Church of Christ with their riches and also offer up the spiritual incense of prayer to Christ), and they will proclaim the praise of the Lord.

    * Matthew 2:11 (Psalm 72:10)

    Useful Applications

    I. CORRECTION: That we ought to rejoice heartily of Christ, who is the great Light of the world (v. 1). II. DOCTRINE: That the calling of the Gentiles to the Kingdom of Christ is a very great, joyful, and comforting work of God. (v. 3–5)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Genesis 17:3–14 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Old Testament Reading of the Feast of the Circumcision and Name of Jesus, Genesis 17:3–14, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    Note: This is the Old Testament Reading prescribed by the Lutheran Missal Project. Lutheran Service Book prescribes Numbers 6:22–27 instead.

    I. The promise and covenant of the ancestors of Abram; therefore, Abram’s name is changed to Abraham. (v. 1–8) II. The confirmation of the covenant, or the institution of circumcision. (v. 9–14)

    Annotated Translation

    3. Then Abram fell on his face (to give witness to his unworthiness, humility, deference, and thankfulness). And God spoke further with him and said:

    4. “Behold, I am (I am the true, singular, almighty God), and have (established) my covenant with you,1 and you shall be a father of many peoples (not only of the people which will descend from you according to the flesh, but rather in general of all believers from both Jews and Gentiles, Romans 4:16–17).

    1 Hebrew: “As for me, behold, my covenant shall remain with you, that you…”

    5. Therefore, you shall no longer be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made * you the father of many peoples (Luther: “Abram means ‘high father,’ but Abraham means ‘the father of multitudes,’ although those multitudes are only indicated with one letter in his name, not without cause,” namely to indicate that these children of Abraham are made one people and one Church according to the promise and according to the Spirit, be they Jews or Gentiles.)

    * Romans 4:11, 17 (Nehemiah 9:7)

    6. And I will make you very fruitful, and will make nations of you (I will bring it about that various peoples come forth from you, not only the Israelites, but also the Ishmaelites and the Edomites, etc.);1 and kings shall also come from you (not only the kings in Judah and Israel, but rather also the Ishmaelite and Edomite kings).

    * Hebrew: “And I will make you to be become (entire) peoples, etc.” (Genesis 17:20)

    7. And I will establish My covenant between Me and you, and to your offspring after you, with their descendants (Luther: “So long as their [covenant] shall last, for Moses hereby indicates that their [covenant] shall finally cease and another come”),1 so that it is an everlasting covenant (as it pertains to the bodily benefit which God promised to the bodily offspring of Abraham, namely, the possession of the land of Canaan, the word ‘eternal’ here is used for a long time which nevertheless has its determined end. But insofar as it pertains to the spiritual benefit which God has promised to the spiritual offspring of Abraham who are all true believers, namely, God’s grace, forgiveness of sins, protecting, and blessing in this life and heavenly glory in that life, it is certainly and eternal unceasing covenant), thus, that I will be your God and your offspring’s after you (whatever good I have, and whatever can be expected from Me, that I all promise to you hereby and to your descendants; I will give you all My goods, all My salvation, indeed I will give you Myself as your own, I will love you as a Father, protect you, help you, and make you eternally blessed).

    (Jeremiah 31:33)

    1 Hebrew: “In all their continuing (that is, appointed) times, so long as they shall possess their (allotted) dwellings.” See Leviticus 7:36, 23:14 and Deuteronomy 31:13, where this explanation is clearly set forth.

    8. And will give to you and to your offspring after you * the land, since † you are a stranger to them, namely, the entire land of Canaan as an eternal (lengthy)1 possession; and I will be your God (insofar as they will prove themselves as my people).”

    * Genesis 24:7

    † Genesis 23:4

    1 † In Hebrew, the word properly signifies a hidden or inconceivable time. But that this promise is also contingent, see 2 Kings 21:8.

    9. And God said to Abraham, “So now you shall keep My covenant, you and your offspring after you along with their descendants.

    10. * This is My covenant, 1 which you shall keep between Me and you, and your offspring after you: Everyone that is masculine among you shall be circumcised.

    * Leviticus 12:3; Luke 2:21; John 7:22; Acts 7:8; Romans 4:11

    1 Hebrew: “But this is the (foremost) ordinance of the covenant (and the chief article demanded in the agreement), which you shall keep with precise oversight as something that has been made between me and you, as also with your children who will come after you. It shall namely be that which… etc.”

    11. Now you shall circumcise * the foreskin in your flesh. It shall be a sign of the covenant between me and you.

    * Deuteronomy 10:16 (Romans 4:11)

    12. Each little boy among your descendants you shall circumcise when he is eight days old (until the coming of the Messiah, who will institute the Sacrament of Baptism in the stead of circumcision, Colossians 2:11–12). In the same way [you shall circumcise] each one who is born of the servants at home or that has been purchased1 from foreigners that is not of your offspring (who does not descend from your blood. In the Hebrew text it is repeated once again: He shall indeed be circumcised, both the one who is born in your house and the one who is purchased with your money).

    * Genesis 21:4 (Leviticus 12:3; Luke 2:21; John 7:22)

    1 Hebrew: “for money,” see Leviticus 25:44

    13. Thus shall my covenant be in your flesh as an everlasting covenant.

    14. And if a little boy is not circumcised in the foreskin of his flesh (whose parents fall away secretly or publicly from the true God of Israel and, out of contempt for this holy Sacrament, do not allow their child to be circumcised, and when he has come to his years and understanding, he has not wanted to allow himself to be circumcised; for this threat does not apply to those Israelite children who out of necessity had to be deprived of circumcision),1 that soul shall be cut off from his people (that man is not to be regarded here on earth as a true member of the Church, nor have a part in the kingdom of heaven, he is not to be considered as a member of my covenant or a child of grace); for the reason that he has neglected my covenant (having broken it and willfully destroyed it himself, that is, in his own person).

    (Leviticus 17:4; Deuteronomy 29:20ff.)

    1 † See John 5:4 and Exodus 4:24; in the latter place, the mother nevertheless sins terribly by tender neglect.

    Useful Applications

    I. CORRECTION: Toward unhypocritical piety, which has a great reward from God (v. 1–8). II. DOCTRINE: That we are received into the gracious covenant of God through Baptism, which was prefigured by circumcision (v. 7–14).

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Galatians 3:23–29 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Epistle Reading of the Feast of the Circumcision and Name of Jesus, Galatians 3:23–29, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    III. A report concerning the right use of the Law. (v. 23–29)

    Annotated Translation

    23. But, before faith came, (before the preaching of the Gospel concerning the now sent Messiah, which teaches the faith, and through which the Holy Spirit works faith, was proclaimed and spared in the world, that is, during the time of the Old Testament, before the coming of the Son of God in the flesh), we were under the Law (as those constricted) *, and were sealed (so that we were not allowed to live out our pleasure; that in this way we might bear an even greater longing for the Messiah) for faith, which should then be revealed (until the time when the Gospel should be preached in all he world and we were redeemed from the burden of the Law).

    * Galatians 4:3 (Romans 7:6, 16:25ff.)

    24. In this way the Law was our disciplinarian (and had kept us in school under disciples, and also through its figures and types directed us) unto Christ (just as also a disciplinarian holds a young boy strictly until he comes to his years and can rule himself, in this way, the Law has driven us through the revelation and accusation of our sin and through strict demanding of a perfect obedience, that we yearn after Christ, who would fulfill the Law in our stead and redeem us from the curse of the Law), * so that we be justified through faith (in Him).

    * Romans 10:4 (Galatians 4:19; Matthew 5:17)

    25. But now that faith has come (since now in the New Testament the Gospel concerning the appeared Messiah is preached in all the world), we are no longer under the disciplinarian (we are free from the Levitical ordinances and from the curse of the Law of the Ten Commandments).

    (Galatians 4:2ff.)

    26. For * you (believers) are all (you are according to descent Jews or Gentiles, Galatians 3:28) God’s children (and thereafter also heirs of salvation) through faith in Christ Jesus.

    * Isaiah 56:5; John 1:12; Romans 8:17 (Galatians 4:5)

    27. For as many * of you1 who are baptized (as many among you have received the Sacrament of Holy Baptist, not only according to Christ’s command, but also and chiefly unto His fellowship by faith in Him, which in the New Testament has been instituted in the stead of circumcision, Colossians 2:11), † have put on (and have come into the fellowship of all the goods of) Christ (and His righteousness through faith).

    * Romans 6:3

    1 Greek: “into Christ” [εἰς Χριστὸν]

    † Romans 13:14

    28. Here * there is neither Jew nor Greek, here there is neither slave nor free man, here there is neither man nor woman (here it is not seen nor counted before God whether someone is a Jew or Gentile, a bondservant or a free man, a man or a woman, as indeed was especially strongly considered under the Law of Moses) for you are altogether one in Christ Jesus (each one as the other is pleasing to God for the sake of Christ; also you are altogether members of one spiritual body of which Christ is the Head).

    * Romans 10:12; 1 Corinthians 12:13 (Colossians 3:11; Ephesians 2:14ff.)

    29. But if you are Christ’s (incorporated into Christ through faith and united with Him), so you are indeed * Abraham’s offspring (spiritual children of Abraham, the father of all believers), and heirs (of eternal life) according to the promise (which was made to Abraham).

    * Romans 9:7 (Romans 2:28ff, 4:17)

    Useful Applications

    III. DOCTRINE: Those who are baptized have put on Christ and have come into the fellowship of all His heavenly goods (v. 27). DOCTRINE: Indeed, whoever truly believes is God’s child; whatever he may be according to estate, whoever he may be, he can expect the heavenly inheritance (v. 26–29).

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Luke 2:21 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Holy Gospel of the Feast of the Circumcision and Name of Jesus, Luke 2:21, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    II. Concerning the Circumcision of Christ. (v. 21)

    Annotated Text

    21. And when it was about the eighth day (according to the birth of Christ) for the child (Christ, according to the Law, Genesis 17:12; Leviticus 12:3) to be circumcised (because the law of circumcision only pertains to those men who are conceived and born in sin, Christ was therefore not subject to this law according to His person, but had made Himself subject to the Law for our sake in order to redeem us, who were under the Law, and so that we might receive sonship, Galatians 4:4–5; and the holy drops of blood which He shed in His circumcision, as it were, were the down payment for our redemption, since He obliged Himself to render full satisfaction and payment in His time; after this, He had wanted to prove with His circumcision that He was a true man and was born from Abraham’s lineage), then was1 His name called Jesus, * which He was called by the angel (Gabriel), before He was conceived then in His mother’s womb.

    1 Greek: “also” [καὶ] (beyond the fact that He was circumcised)

    * Luke 1:31 (Matthew 1:21)

    Useful Applications

    II. COMFORT: The name of Jesus means so much as Savior or Helper, because through His holy merit help is given to us from the devil and the power of hell, and because eternal salvation has been bestowed to believers. (v. 21)

  • Notes and Useful Applications for Revelation 14:1–5 from Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877)

    The following is my translation of the notes and useful applications for the Epistle Reading of the Feast of the Holy Innocents, Revelation 14:1–5, as they are found in Das Weimarische Bibelwerk (1877). Square brackets indicate my own notes and additions. For the useful applications, I recommend the reader see this very helpful article by Dr. Benjamin T. G. Mayes.

    I. An assurance for the elect here on earth. (v. 1–5)

    Annotated Text

    1. And I saw a Lamb standing on Mount Zion (this Lamb signifies Christ, Revelation 5:6, who lets Himself be seen here on Mount Zion, by which the Christian Church is understood, which was prefigured in the Old Testament by Mount Zion, on which the city of David was built, Psalm 2:6; Zechariah 9:9; Hebrews 12:22. So that no one may think that no true Church remained anymore under such universal seduction of the Antichrist, the Lamb of God allows Himself to be seen here on Mount Zion to indicate that Christ preserved a Church for Himself even under the antichristian persecution and deception, and support it with His gracious presence. Luther: “Here He comforts Christians that such woe and abomination shall be overthrown through the Gospel.”), and with Him a hundred and forty-four thousand (by this a great host of the true believers  of every age and estate is signified, whom God has preserved in His grace and truth under the Antichrist), who had the name of their Father written on their forehead. (This is set forth against the mark of the beast which the Antichrist give upon the forehead to those who confess themselves to his kingdom, Revelation 13:16, and thereby is signified that although the Antichrist rages and rampages, nevertheless the first foundation of God stands and has this seal: “The Lord knows His own,” 2 Timothy 2:19, so truly as if He had made a mark upon their foreheads, Revelation 7:3; these also bear the name of the heavenly Father upon their foreheads in such a manner that they are not ashamed of the Gospel, Romans 1:16, but rather confess it boldly.)

    2. And I heard * a voice from heaven, as of a great (rushing) water (by which is signified the great host of the elect who praise God), and as a voice of great thunder (by which is signified the wondrous power of the Spirit, with which the elect are clothed form on high, Luke 24:49, as also the undaunted courage and the piercing voice of those who praise God); and the voice which I heard was as harpists playing upon their harps (by which there is prefigured the loveliness of the divine praise in the mouth of the elect, and at the same time, with an eye toward the royal prophet David, who praised God upon his harp with lovely Psalms, 1 Samuel 16:23; Psalm 43:4; Psalm 71:22; likewise, that they serve and praise their God in quietness without a great racket).

    * Revelation 1:15 (5:8, 15:2)

    3. And they sang as * a new song before the throne (of the Lamb), and before the four creatures and the (twenty-four) elders (Because the antichristian rout worships the Beast and blasphemes God, Revelation 13:5, 6, 8; meanwhile, these sing to God the Lord a new song, by which is understood a lovely and glorious song concerning the great benefits that Christ bestows upon the elect in the New Testament and renews them through His Spirit); and no one could learn the song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were purchased from the earth (who were purchased by Christ through His blood, 1 Corinthians 6:20, 7:23; 1 Peter 1:18–19, so that they should no longer hang on to earthly things through disordered love, but rather should dwell in heaven with their mind; who also with true faith appropriate to themselves this redemption which has happened through Christ. These alone have been able to learn and sing this song, for without true faith in Christ, no one can rightly call upon God or praise Him, Romans 10:14; 1 Corinthians 12:3. Also it is hereby signified that only those who are true disciples of the Gospel, who have been purchased from earthly things, are eager to learn this new song.).

    * Revelation 5:9 (4:5, 7:4; Psalm 96:1; Proverbs 2:6; Ephesians 1:17ff.)

    4. These are those who are not tarnished with women (who have not defiled themselves through spiritual adultery and harlotry, that is, through idolatry, heresy, and false worship, but rather have maintained the purity of doctrine undefiled); for they are virgins (thereby is signified the virginity of faith, of which the holy apostles speaks in this way to the Corinthians, “I have betrothed you to one husband, that I might bring you to Christ as a pure virgin,” 2 Corinthians 11:2; likewise, thereby is signified the purity of a godly walk to which true believers diligently apply themselves), and they follow the Lamb wherever He goes1 (as His beloved entrusted Bride, they walk in the footsteps of His holy life, Matthew 16:24, and they do not yield back when the Lam leads them through the thorns of tribulation to the roses of heavenly glory and majesty, Acts 14:22. Therefore, they will also be with Him in eternal joy, John 17:24; 1 Thessalonians 4:17.). They are * those purchased from men to be firstfruits of God and the Lamb (God has elected them from eternity in Christ to be His firstfruits, and in the fullness of time “He has begotten them according to His will through the Word of truth, so that they would be first fruits of His creatures,” James 1:18. They are consecrated to God the Lord, just as in the Old Testament the firstfruits were consecrated to Him, in whom Christ, the only High Priest of the New Testament takes pleasure, just as the offering of the firstfruits in the Old Testament was pleasing to God).

    * Revelation 5:9 (3:4; 1 Corinthians 6:20)

    1 Greek: “For (true) virgins (chaste and pure souls who love God, Matthew 5:8) are those who follow the Lamb wherever He goes (who hold fast only to Christ’s Word).” [παρθένοι γάρ εἰσιν, οὗτοι οἱ ἀκολουθοῦντες τῷ ἀρνίῳ ὅπου ἄν ὑπάγῃ] Thus, the saying here is not about abstention from marriage.

    5. And in their mouth is found nothing false (in which they also follow the Lamb in other ways, Isaiah 53:9; 1 Peter 2:22); for they are irreproachable before the throne of God. (“They have washed their garments and made them bright in the blood of the Lamb,” Revelation 7:14, and they diligently apply themselves to a blameless walk, 1 Corinthians 1:8; Ephesians 1:4; Philippians 2:15; 2 Peter 3:14. What they believe from the heart they also confess with the mouth [Romans 10:10], and how they present themselves with words, they also prove with their works [James 2:18]. They are no hypocrites that they should ascribe to themselves the praise of their own perfect righteousness, rather, they confess their weakness and imperfection, and they comfort themselves in this, that one day they will be entirely perfect and without all sin before the throne of God in eternal life, Ephesians 5:27.)

    (Psalm 32:2; Zephaniah 3:13; Ephesians 5:27)

    Useful Applications

    I. DOCTINE: Those who hereafter want to follow the Lamb of God into eternal life wherever He goes, that is, those who want to be with Christ eternally and remain with Him, they must diligently attend to the purity of faith and Christian life (as virgins). (v. 4)