Essay File: Recent submissions
Now showing items 3761-3780 of 4187
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Using Devotional Classics
(2007)Originally prepared as a course introduction for a 2007 Summer Quarter course on devotionals at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, this essay discusses the reason and importance for the study of devotional “classics” produced ... -
The Sacraments: Who Exactly Has Them - and What Exactly Do They Have?
(1999)This essay examines the validity of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper in non-Lutheran churches, particularly among Reformed traditions. Bivens outlines the Lutheran understanding of Sacraments as divinely instituted rites ... -
Exegesis of Philemon
(1970) -
The Primary Doctrine in Its Primary Setting: Objective Justification and Lutheran Worship
(1996)This essay explores the foundational role of objective justification in shaping Lutheran worship. Bivens defines justification as God’s declarative act of forgiving all sinners through Christ’s substitutionary work, ... -
College Campus Organizations
(1973) -
The Doctrine of the Call and Ministry
(1994)Forrest L. Bivens’ essay explores the biblical, confessional, and contemporary WELS understanding of the divine call and public ministry. Beginning with scriptural foundations, Bivens distinguishes between the universal ... -
Spiritual Renewal as Expressed in the Christian's Life
(0000)This essay explores how spiritual renewal manifests in the life of a Christian, emphasizing its radical, relational, and resolute nature. Bivens defines renewal as a Spirit-driven transformation rooted in justification and ... -
Seizing the Opportunities: Ways to Encourage Godly Giving
(2007)This essay explores practical and theological strategies for cultivating godly giving within congregations. Bivens emphasizes that stewardship is a vital aspect of sanctified living, rooted in law and gospel, and deserving ... -
Practical Insights Into the Minister's Spiritual Growth
(2002)This essay offers seven practical insights into the spiritual growth of gospel ministers, emphasizing its necessity, challenges, and rewards. Bivens argues that spiritual growth is not optional—it is essential for Christians, ... -
How, then, Can They Call on the One they have Not Believed In?
(1993)This essay explores Romans 10:13–14 and the necessity of gospel proclamation for salvation. Bivens emphasizes that calling on the Lord presupposes belief, which in turn requires hearing the gospel. He contrasts the biblical ... -
How Does Our Christology Impact Our Daily Lives?
(1998)One might think that some biblical doctrines don’t have as much an impact on daily living as others. The study of Jesus, for example, might be such a doctrine. Prof. Bivens disagrees. This essay describes the influence ... -
Haggai 2:7 The Desired of All Nations Will Come
(2003)This exegetical brief examines Haggai 2:7 and the debated phrase “the desired of all nations will come,” exploring whether it refers to Christ or to desirable things (e.g., treasures). Bivens analyzes the Hebrew grammar, ... -
The High Calling of the Christian According to the First Epistle of Peter
(0000)Frederick E. Blume explores the theological depth and pastoral intent of the First Epistle of Peter, emphasizing the Christian’s high calling amid suffering. Written to Gentile believers in Asia Minor, Peter’s letter affirms ... -
Creating a Home-Run Hitting Team: A Team Approach to Parish Youth Outreach
(2006)Walker presents Scripture-based motivation and methods for involving youths in a congregation’s mission to reach out to its community. -
The Formation of the New Testament Canon
(1941)Professor Blume takes us through the various factors involved in the compilation of the books of the New Testament. After a brief historical exposition on the early church, he touches on early canons with their strengths ...