Sermon -- 1st Sunday of End Times: Reformation (October 30, 2022)

ROMANS 3:19-28

SALVATION COMES BY FAITH ALONE.

In the name + of Jesus.

     There has been an ongoing battle in the church about two Bible verses which seem to be at odds with one another.  The first Bible passage is from our reading for today.  St. Paul writes, “For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law” (Romans 3:28).  The second passage is from the epistle of St. James.  James writes, “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone” (James 2:24).  Some emphasize one verse at the expense of the other, hoping to avoid any sense of contradiction.  But it is important to understand the context of these passages.  When you do, you will recognize that there is no contradiction at all.

     James writes to Christians who were using God’s forgiveness as an excuse to continue in their sins.  Even today, you will find Christians whose behavior confesses, “If God forgives, then I can do anything.  It doesn’t matter.”  James warns you that it does matter.  If you have new life in Jesus Christ, that life ought to reflect a devotion to God’s word both in your confession and in your behavior.  A person who claims to be a Christian and yet lives like a pagan is a liar.  That person may claim to have faith, but what good is a claim to believe God’s word when one’s life is opposed to that word?  James tells you that your life should reflect your confession.  Therefore, he concludes, “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). 

     St. James tells us how a justified person is supposed to live.  But if St. James is telling us how we are justified, the result is nothing but terror and despair.  If we are justified by works and not by faith alone, then we have a lot of work to do, don’t we?  If I believe in Jesus as my Savior but I must still prove my worth by my works, then the burden falls back upon me.  And this is work that does not end.  When will it satisfy God?  How will you know if God is satisfied with your works?  And how could you know?  If it depends upon your works, how should God communicate to you, “That’s enough.  You’ve done a good job”?  Since God makes no such utterance from heaven, when could you ever have peace because the works you’ve done are finally pleasing?  What God does make known to us is that all works must be done as he demands—willingly, cheerfully, flawlessly, and constantly.  Who is up to that?  On our best days, we would live in doubt.  On our worst days, we would sink to despair knowing that it is hopeless. 

     St. Paul shows us how hopeless the sinner truly is before God.  He declares, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).  More accurately, we should read that verse this way: “All have sinned.”  That is a fact.  That is our status.  We are all sinners.  “And all continue to fall short of the glory of God.”  That is what we do.  We continually fail to live up to God’s Commandments.  We are impatient with other people and snap at them.  We become annoyed by our fellow man.  We detest him when we are supposed to love him.  We are bitter about our blessings, convinced that God has rewarded others better than us.  We struggle with our problems and suggest that God does not care about us or that he is incompetent to fix them.

     Because of our sinful status, we daily sin against God and others.  We cannot overcome our daily sins, and we cannot correct our sinful status.  Rather than offering our good works to God, we present lousy excuses.  God’s Law exposes this and condemns us for it.  St. Paul wrote, “Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God” (Romans 3:19).  What defense can we make before God?  Excuses fix nothing. 

     The Psalms ask us to consider, “Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?  And who shall stand in his holy place?  He who has clean hands and a pure heart” (Psalm 24:3-4).  In other words, only that which is righteous can dwell with a righteous God.  Our works are not righteous because we are not righteous.  Our hands are dirty, and our hearts are impure.  No matter how diligent, no matter how zealous, no matter how sincere, no matter how celebrated you are, your works will not make you righteous.  They cannot save you.  They cannot even contribute to it.

     Human efforts at righteousness fail.  “But now,” St. Paul writes, “the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe” (Romans 3:21-22).  This righteousness comes from outside of us.  It is not a righteousness from you; it is a righteousness from God.  It is not a righteousness you have to go and get; it is a righteousness which is given to you. 

     Salvation comes by faith alone.  It is the only way you will ever be assured of your standing before God.  While it is true that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23), St. Paul goes on to state this as equally true: all “are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith” (Romans 3:24-25). 

Jesus Christ has provided all you need to be justified, that is, declared guiltless of all sin.  He gave himself up as a propitiation, that is, as a sacrifice which appeases God’s wrath. 

     When an Old Testament worshiper came to the temple with an offering, he would place his hand on the head of the animal to be sacrificed.  He would designate it: “This is my substitute.  This one dies for me.”  His guilt would be transferred to the animal, and he would be slain on behalf of him.  God’s anger would be poured out on the animal which was consumed by fire, and the worshiper would be forgiven.  

     Jesus is that sacrifice for us.  He was designated by God the Father as our substitute.  We see Jesus and know: “This one dies for me.”  Our guilt was transferred over to Jesus, so God’s wrath was transferred over to Jesus.  He exchanged his innocence for our guilt.  Only Jesus could do this.  He became a man so that he could bleed and die as our atoning sacrifice.  But he is true God so that his payment counts for all sinners of all times.  At the death of Jesus, all the wrath of God was poured out.  Jesus was consumed in his fiery wrath.  The blood of God’s Son cleanses your hearts and hands and voices.  The innocence of Jesus has been transferred over to you for your righteousness. 

     Since Jesus made the full payment, there is nothing to add to it.  Justice has been done and grace has been bestowed through Jesus.  “It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Romans 3:26).  Jesus’ propitiation proves that God is just: The guilty one has paid the price.  Jesus’ resurrection proves that God justifies you.  If Jesus’ payment to redeem you from sin and death were insufficient, he would still be dead.  But Jesus lives.  The payment is complete.  Your sins are forgiven.  Death is overcome.  Heaven is opened.  By faith in Jesus, you benefit from Jesus’ life and death.  Salvation comes by faith alone.

     Consider the peace this brings to you.  You are saved by taking God at his word.  Regarding the righteousness you need, the Lord promises: “As many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27).  Regarding the sins you have committed, the Lord promises: “As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12).  As far as who is included in this salvation, the Lord declares, “[Jesus] is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).  As far as the completion of the work of salvation, Jesus decreed just before he died, “It is finished” (John 19:30).  These are the promises of God who does not and cannot lie.  We take God at his word, and he alleviates our fears, silences our doubts, and guarantees everlasting life.  Salvation comes by faith alone in Jesus Christ.

     Oh, what an amazing comfort this is!  The devil still tempts you to add your little contribution to Jesus’ work, as if Jesus’ payment for sins has not been enough.  It seems to make sense because we know God’s will is that we live good and godly lives, as St. James testifies.  But the devil always wants to rob you of your comfort and your confidence.  He always directs your attention away from Jesus and puts it back on yourself. 

     But salvation comes by faith in God’s word, so take heed of that word!  He says, “We hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law” (Romans 3:28).  “Apart from works of the law.”  Apart from whatever you have done.  Apart from whatever you will do.  Apart from whatever you can do.  Salvation comes by faith alone.  Not by faith AND perfect church attendance.  Not by faith AND generous offerings.  Not by faith AND a clean record.  Not by faith AND a cheerful attitude.  Not by faith AND good mental health, a happy marriage, or a long and prosperous life.  While all these things are good and desirable, they are not what save you.  Salvation comes by faith alone.  Everything for your salvation relies on Jesus; therefore, you can be sure that it was done perfectly and completely.   

     St. Paul declares how you can stand before God with clean hands and a pure heart, with a calm mind and a peaceful soul: You are saved by faith alone in Jesus Christ.  He has done the work.  He bestows upon you the gifts.  In saying so, St. Paul is not picking a fight with St. James.  St. James is also right.  We do strive for good and godly living as directed by God’s word.  We strive for this day after day—not in order to be God’s people, but because we are God’s people.

     “Faith alone” does not mean the works of the Law don’t have to be done.  “Faith alone” recognizes that the works of the Law have been done.  Jesus did them with his perfect life and with his innocent death.  And his resurrection proves that they were done.  Jesus gives us the benefit of them with his promise: “This is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day” (John 6:40).  Jesus does not tell you what you must do, which will never be completed.  He tells you what he has done, which is complete and perfect and assured.  The Savior wants you to know that you are saved.  And he does.  You have his word on it. 

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Saints Triumphant -- Call for Names of Remembrance

CALL FOR NAMES -- 

SAINTS TRIUMPHANT

               Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life.  Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1.  Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the 3rd Sunday of End Times which focuses on Saints Triumphant.

               Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included.  Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 14, 2021 and November 13, 2022.  When submitting these names, please include:

          1. the name of the deceased
          2. your name
          3. how he/she was related to you
          4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known

               All names submitted by Thursday, November 10 will be listed in the bulletin.  Names may still be submitted as late as Sunday morning but will not be printed in the bulletin.

Names can be submitted to: welsnovi@aol.com 

               The prayer which will be spoken on the Sunday of Saints Triumphant is here:

PRAYER FOR ALL SAINTS’ DAY

M:          Almighty God, today we recall with thanksgiving those saints who were taken from us in the Church Militant and carried by the angels to you and the Church Triumphant.  Especially, we give you praise for our departed family and friends who have gone before us in faith and all those who are in our hearts and minds this day:

               (The names of those who are to be remembered are read).

               To these, you have granted eternal rest this past year.  We thank you for giving them new life in Christ while on this earth and for sustaining them in true and saving faith throughout their life.  We praise you for finally giving them the fulfillment of your promises of salvation and eternal life.  Strengthen and sustain us in this saving faith so that we may also join with the angels and archangels and all the company of heaven in joyful praise, peace, and rest forever; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Cong:    Amen.

Update from Good Shepherd (October 27, 2022)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE

Divine Service is Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters meets on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM.  The schedule can be seen here. 

For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

JEREMIAH, THE WEEPING PROPHET

          On Sunday, October 16, we will begin a new series for Adult Bible Class. We will consider the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet because, although he was faithful in his service as God’s prophet, he was grieved at the rebellion of God’s people and, eventually, at the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, the place where God had put his name.
          God’s people of all time do well to heed calls to repentance so that we do not lose the gifts God is eager to give. Therefore, we will hear Jeremiah preach to us and humbly take to heart his words of repentance and his words of promise.
          The schedule for this class can be found here.  

CALL FOR NAMES – SAINTS TRIUMPHANT
             Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life. Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1. Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the 3rd Sunday of End Times which focuses on Saints Triumphant. 

            Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included. Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 14, 2021 and November 13, 2022. When submitting these names, please include

                    1. the name of the deceased
                    2. your name
                    3. how he/she was related to you
                    4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known
           All names submitted by Thursday, November 10 will be listed in the bulletin. Names may still be submitted as late as Sunday morning, but will not be printed in the bulletin.

EVERY MEMBER VISITS – 2022

          Every 3-4 years, the pastor desires to meet with all members in their homes.  It is an opportunity to speak with each other in a less-than-formal setting. The pastor gets to know the people he serves better. It also allows for members to ask about matters that might be personal, to offer suggestions and ideas, to inquire about matters of the Bible that have them confused, or just general chit-chat. Visits would be about 45-60 minutes but can last longer if you want them to. You can also sign up through the links below.  Time slots are first come, first served.  The visits will be available throughout 2022.

          October: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050a4fa8aa2ea64-every9 

          November: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050a4fa8aa2ea64-every10

CHURCH COUNCIL NOTES

>>>   The Church Council has not made any formal decision yet on the purchase and implementation of the new hymnal (CW21).  We will make a presentation at our November Open Forum to allow for questions and reactions from the congregation.  The date for the Open Forum has yet to be set.

            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 1 of the Divine Service  sounds like, see the video at this link.
            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 2 of the Divine Service sounds like, see this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3L5rrhpWfc .  (The liturgy begins at the 14:30 mark.)

>>>  What is “the next thing” we will invite people to?  Getting people to our church for an event is only Step 1.  We want them to come back.  Our desire is to have them join us for worship, but that may not be Step 2.  What will we invite people to next so that they become more acquainted with us?  We want to foster that mentality so that we are always inviting people to Good Shepherd for one thing or another.  Our goal is that “the next thing” people come to will be a Bible Class or to worship.  For some, it will take a few community events before they are ready for that.  Look for a general schedule to be presented so that we always have “the next thing” in mind.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
Services are uploaded to YouTube each week, usually the Monday after the service. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from Sunday, October 23: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 23, 2022 - YouTube

OFFICE HOURS
          Office hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. The pastor will be in his office unless a meeting has been scheduled elsewhere (consult the weekly schedule). The pastor is also available by appointment. Call or text (248-719-5218). You may also email (welsnovi@aol.com), but the response may be slower.

DO YOU LIKE US?
Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

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REGUARL SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters is on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM. 

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com

YouTube -- Festival of St. James of Jerusalem (October 23, 2022)

Here is the service from Sunday, October 23, 2022.

Sermon -- Festival of St. James of Jerusalem (October 23, 2022)

The Council of Jerusalem (50 AD)                    

ACTS 15:12-22a

COMPROMISING FOR THE SAKE OF LOVE,

UNCOMPROMISING FOR THE SAKE OF FAITHFULNESS.

In the name + of Jesus.

     Christians have always struggled with determining how to worship the Lord.  In Reformation times, there was confusion about what could be retained in the church and what had to go.  The Lutherans had identified abuses in the Roman Catholic Church and took pains to correct them.  (Examples are found in the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, Articles 22-28 -- https://bookofconcord.org/augsburg-confession/ .)  But there were still debates.  What is mandatory?  What is permissible?  What is forbidden?  What ceremonies are wise and beneficial, and what ceremonies make a poor or confusing confession?  Where can we compromise and where must we not?

     People approached this from two different angles.  Lutherans said, “If a tradition has been practiced in the Church and Scripture does not forbid it, we can make use of it with thanksgiving.”  Other Protestants said, “If Scripture does not command its use, we dare not use it.  It is forbidden.”  For example, Scripture says nothing about making the sign of the cross on oneself.  So, is it to be practiced or not?  Lutherans say we are free to do it.  In fact, the Small Catechism encourages it.  Since Scripture does not command it, Protestants do not cross themselves.  Some find it repulsive.

     The principle is simple: Where Scripture is silent, we are free.  However, that freedom is shaped by love for other people.  We never want to use our freedom to drive someone away from Jesus Christ or to make a poor confession.  While we may be free to do something, it may not be wise or loving to do it.  We compromise for the sake of love, but we will be uncompromising for the sake of faithfulness.

     The early Christian Church was embroiled in a similar debate.  The first decades of the Christian Church had a strong Jewish flavor to it.  The first Christians, the apostles, and Jesus himself were all Jewish.  The only sacred writings were the Old Testament.  For centuries, God’s people were directed by the ceremonial laws in Leviticus which included such matters as dietary laws and circumcision.  These laws had guided their lives and had become a part of the culture.  The Jews accepted this to be fact: To be God’s people was to be Jewish. 

     But as the word of God spread rapidly, Gentiles were being added to the Church.  They had never practiced circumcision or observed kosher laws.  Now came the struggle: How do people worship and serve the Lord?  To put it another way: How Jewish were Christians supposed to be? 

     To settle the matter, leaders from the early Christian Church gathered in Jerusalem.  The leader of this council was James, the brother of our Lord.  He presided as the bishop over the entire church and moderated the debate which gave direction to the church of God.  Although he was not an apostle, James of Jerusalem was recognized as a man with discernment.  He saw where compromises could be made and where they could not.  Compromise would be done for the sake of love, but the Church would remain uncompromising for the sake of faithfulness.

     Where does one turn to determine where compromises can be made and where we must remain uncompromising?  To the Scriptures.  Where else?  Just as Paul and Barnabas testified, James of Jerusalem acknowledged that the Gentiles had always been in God’s plans.  He declared: “With this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written, ‘After this I will return, and I will rebuild the tent of David … that the remnant of mankind may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who are called by my name…’” (Acts 15:15-17). 

     The Church was increasing with people who had never observed the ceremonial laws in Leviticus.  The question remained: Did they need to?  For the sake of faithfulness to God’s word, everyone would remain uncompromising, but for the sake of love, the Gentiles were asked to make some compromises.  James rendered this judgment: “We should write to (the Gentiles) to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood.  For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues” (Acts 15:20-21).  These ceremonial things had been so ingrained in the minds of the Jewish Christians that it would cause friction among the Christians if the Gentiles were to do them. 

     Over the course of time, most of these admonitions went away.  Most had to do with laws that were put in place to point people to the Messiah’s coming.  But since the Messiah had come, the ceremonial laws were no longer mandatory.  For the Jews, they were still permissible, and that for the sake of culture, not for salvation.  The Gentiles were asked to be sympathetic to Jewish sensitivities for the sake of love.  The admonition against sexual immorality, however, stands since that is the 6^th Commandment.  On that point, we are still uncompromising for the sake of faithfulness.

     Now, what does all this have to do with us?  Because we are still sinners who have been brought into God’s Church.  We are supposed to be united to one another and to seek each other’s good.  But we also come with different ideas, opinions, and personal practices.  We can confuse a cultural tradition with our religion.  Don’t think so?  What if we don’t put up a Christmas tree in church this year?  Our ideas, opinions, and practices also come with self-centeredness.  We want our own way.  We expect others to agree with us and honor us for our ideas.  We get angry when we don’t get it because pride makes no compromises.  It demands others yield, and it often causes a fracture in the church.

     But this is not how you have come to know Jesus Christ, and it is not how you have received a place in his church.  In regard to his word, the Lord is uncompromising.  He does not edit or alter his word for anyone.  Heaven and earth will pass away, but the word of the Lord will never pass away.  That word shows us what is good and right, but it also exposes that we are not.  The word shows us what it means to love our neighbor as ourselves, but it also shows that we have not done that.  Love will compromise on opinions and say, “This is not that big a deal.”  Pride will angrily insist, “I must explain to everyone just how stupid this guy is.”  The word of God exposes us.  We are full of pride, full of ourselves, and full of sin.  God’s word condemns us for this.  God does not apologize for this.  He can’t because he is uncompromising on what is true and good and right.  Rather, he calls us to repent.

     But God is also uncompromising in his love and his faithfulness.  He promised to rebuild the tent of David, that is, to restore a remnant of Israel to himself.  He would not compromise on this promise, even swearing on oath that he would do it.  In addition, he swore that he would rescue Gentiles from their darkened minds and prideful hearts, and enlighten them to know God’s grace.  The Lord was uncompromising in this salvation, so he sent his Son to be one to accomplish that. 

     Jesus was uncompromising in his willing obedience to his Father.  The Father sent his Son to be the sacrifice which atones for your sin; for sin cannot go unpunished.  In uncompromising obedience to his Father, Jesus was slain on behalf of sinners.  Jesus is the way into the presence of the Father.  Since you were baptized into his name, you have the righteousness you need wrapped around you and you have the sin which would condemn you removed.  The Lord has promised that whoever believes in Jesus for this salvation and is baptized into his name shall be saved.  God is uncompromising in his faithfulness to that promise.  He is uncompromising in his love for you.

     You do not have to strike any bargain with God about your place in his kingdom.  It has been secured.  You do not need to negotiate with God over the sins which haunt you.  They are forgiven.  You do not have to pledge your faithfulness to God so that he will match it.  Jesus lives to intercede for us, and his blood continues to mark us as God’s people.  God remains faithful even when we fail.

     James of Jerusalem recognized that both Jews and Gentiles in the church were redeemed children of God.  His judgment was determined to see all these people live in harmony with each other.  Their backgrounds and customs may have been confusing and even repulsive to each other.  But their unity was not based on culture; it was based on Christ.  Each would seek the good of the other.  So, the Church pleaded with the Gentiles to compromise for the sake of love: “Please avoid the things which the Jews cannot do in good conscience, even though the ceremonial laws are no longer in effect.”  The Jews, on the other hand, should recognize that their customs were not commandments.  Lack of circumcision was not lack of faith in Jesus Christ. 

     We still strive to make such compromises for the sake of love.  We can learn to appreciate people from another culture and honor them even if we would have to forgo something we are fond of.  If we had Muslims joining us, we might suspend ham and bacon from our Easter breakfast.  Bacon is good, but the kingdom of God is not about bacon.  It is a small concession for the sake of love for others.  If someone from another Christian background comes and genuflects before sitting down, we will respect their act of reverence.  Who knows?  That person may be offended that you don’t.  For the sake of love, each is free to observe his own custom.  Differences in ceremony are not always differences in faith.

     Where God’s word allows for freedom, we can be compromising for the sake of love.  James of Jerusalem sought that all Christians would maintain their harmony.  Love will compromise on opinions.  This is how Spartans and Wolverines can get along, and Republicans and Democrats, and carnivores and vegans.  These things don’t save, and our unity does not come from them.  We are united on God’s word.  Where the Lord has spoken, we must be uncompromising for the sake of faithfulness.  The Commandments of God direct us to a good and godly life.  The promises of God assure us of a blessed salvation.  Our hope and salvation depend upon God.  Therefore, we cling to his word and do not budge an inch.  If God’s word can be compromised, his love and forgiveness can be, too.  God forbid those would ever be left to doubt!  But they are not.  God is uncompromising in his word, and therefore his love and his faithfulness endure forever.

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Update from Good Shepherd (October 20, 2022)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE

Divine Service is Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters meets on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM.  The schedule can be seen here. 

For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

JEREMIAH, THE WEEPING PROPHET

          On Sunday, October 16, we will begin a new series for Adult Bible Class. We will consider the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet because, although he was faithful in his service as God’s prophet, he was grieved at the rebellion of God’s people and, eventually, at the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, the place where God had put his name.
          God’s people of all time do well to heed calls to repentance so that we do not lose the gifts God is eager to give. Therefore, we will hear Jeremiah preach to us and humbly take to heart his words of repentance and his words of promise.
          The schedule for this class can be found here.  

TRUNK OR TREAT
What we need
     > We will need people to decorate the trunks of their cars to hand out candy to our guests. Costumes are optional. At least ten cars will be necessary to make a good impression on our guests. 
     > We will need some people to staff the fellowship hall, to serve food to our guests, to welcome them in, and to clean up any messes that might be made.
     > We will need someone to collect names and contact information for the raffle we are putting together for our guests. This is the way we will be able to follow up on the people who visit us and to invite them to future events and to church.
     > We will need items to be placed in a raffle basket.

To sign up for any of these, please got to the Sign Up Genius page: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050A4FA8AA2EA64-trunk

Friday, October 21, 6:30 PM
    All are invited to a pumpkin carving event. The pumpkins we carve will be used to decorate the church grounds for the Trunk or Treat event on Saturday. We will also set up the fellowship hall so that we are ready for Saturday morning. After carving, we will have a bonfire at the parsonage. If the weather is prohibitive for a bonfire, we will assemble in the parsonage for fellowship. Please bring along a snack and whatever beverages you like.

Saturday, October 22, 10:00 AM – Noon
    Trunk or Treat day is here! If you are bringing your car, please be here no later than 9:30 AM so that our parking lot will be ready when guests arrive. (Some will arrive before 10:00 AM.) We will also need help setting up other activities for the Trunk or Treat event. Some can be taken care of Friday evening, but some will need to be done on Saturday morning.

     After the Trunk or Treat event is over and we have cleaned up, you are welcome to stay for a chili dinner.

MINOR FESTIVAL -- St. James of Jerusalem
          Lutheran worship is liturgical.  While that often refers to an order of worship, it can also refer to the calendar of the Church Year.  The Church Year includes major festivals, such as Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Pentecost, etc...  On Sunday, October 23, we will observe a minor festival, the Festival of St. James of Jerusalem.
          Though not one of the Twelve Apostle, St. James of Jerusalem was the recognized leader of the Christian Church in Jerusalem.  Known also as the brother of our Lord (Galatians 1:19), James was the author of the epistle of James. James was considered a pillar of the early Christian Church (Galatians 2:9) and presided over a Church Council in Jerusalem which acknowledged that Gentiles too have a place in God’s kingdom (Acts 15).  Tradition teaches that James served his entire life in Jerusalem, finally being martyred about 62 AD by the High Priest Annas II.   James was reported to have been thrown to his death from the pinnacle of the temple, stoned to death, or both.

EVERY MEMBER VISITS – 2022

          Every 3-4 years, the pastor desires to meet with all members in their homes.  It is an opportunity to speak with each other in a less-than-formal setting. The pastor gets to know the people he serves better. It also allows for members to ask about matters that might be personal, to offer suggestions and ideas, to inquire about matters of the Bible that have them confused, or just general chit-chat. Visits would be about 45-60 minutes but can last longer if you want them to. You can also sign up through the links below.  Time slots are first come, first served.  The visits will be available throughout 2022.

          October: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050a4fa8aa2ea64-every9 

          November: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050a4fa8aa2ea64-every10

CHURCH COUNCIL NOTES

>>>   The Church Council has not made any formal decision yet on the purchase and implementation of the new hymnal (CW21).  We will make a presentation at our November Open Forum to allow for questions and reactions from the congregation.  The date for the Open Forum has yet to be set.

            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 1 of the Divine Service  sounds like, see the video at this link.
            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 2 of the Divine Service sounds like, see this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3L5rrhpWfc .  (The liturgy begins at the 14:30 mark.)

>>>  What is “the next thing” we will invite people to?  Getting people to our church for an event is only Step 1.  We want them to come back.  Our desire is to have them join us for worship, but that may not be Step 2.  What will we invite people to next so that they become more acquainted with us?  We want to foster that mentality so that we are always inviting people to Good Shepherd for one thing or another.  Our goal is that “the next thing” people come to will be a Bible Class or to worship.  For some, it will take a few community events before they are ready for that.  Look for a general schedule to be presented so that we always have “the next thing” in mind.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
Services are uploaded to YouTube each week, usually the Monday after the service. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from Sunday, October 2: (13) Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 2, 2022 - YouTube

OFFICE HOURS
          Office hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. The pastor will be in his office unless a meeting has been scheduled elsewhere (consult the weekly schedule). The pastor is also available by appointment. Call or text (248-719-5218). You may also email (welsnovi@aol.com), but the response may be slower.

DO YOU LIKE US?
Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

REGUARL SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters is on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM. 

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com

Minor Festival -- St. James of Jerusalem

               Lutheran worship is liturgical.  While that often refers to an order of worship, it can also refer to the calendar of the Church Year.  The Church Year includes major festivals, such as Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Pentecost, etc...  On Sunday, October 23, we will observe a minor festival, the Festival of St. James of Jerusalem.

               Though not one of the Twelve Apostle, St. James of Jerusalem was the recognized leader of the Christian Church in Jerusalem.  Known also as the brother of our Lord (Galatians 1:19), James was the author of the epistle of James.  James was considered a pillar of the early Christian Church (Galatians 2:9) and presided over a Church Council in Jerusalem which acknowledged that Gentiles too have a place in God’s kingdom (Acts 15).  Tradition teaches that James served his entire life in Jerusalem, finally being martyred about 62 AD by the High Priest Annas II.  James was reported to have been thrown to his death from the pinnacle of the temple, stoned to death, or both.

Sermon -- 19th Sunday after Pentecost (October 16, 2022)

LUKE 16:19-31

THE GOOD THINGS ARE FOUND IN GOD’S WORD.

In the name + of Jesus.

     Jesus tells a story about two men.  Which would you rather be?  Since you know the end of the story, I’ll bet I can guess your answer.  But let’s consider each man.  First, “There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day” (Luke 16:19).  Lavish clothing.  Sumptuous meals.  Creature comforts.  Wealth to spare.  If we examine our life goals, the truth is: This is the guy we want to be.

     In contrast, at the gate of the rich man “was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table.  Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores” (Luke 16:20-21).  Lazarus was unemployed, disabled, and diseased.  Jesus mentioned that dogs came a licked his sores.  This was not some sort of Disney moment where the dogs pitied him.  These were scavenger dogs who were waiting to see if Lazarus’ corpse was a meal ready to be eaten.  If you say you don’t want to be Lazarus, it is because no one wants to be destitute and starving.  Lazarus was a man worthy of pity, but none was shown to him.

     This is where we begin to commend ourselves more highly than we ought.  Jesus commented that Lazarus “desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table” (Luke 16:21).  From this we infer—fairly, I think—that the rich man had no compassion for the beggar right outside his own gate.  We like to credit ourselves, “If I had been there, I certainly would have taken care of Lazarus.”  But when you see someone who is destitute, are you open-handed or tight-fisted with your money?  If you are not helping the destitute now, you would not have done it then, either.  Of course, we all have our reasons.  I’ll bet the rich man did, too.  Perhaps he thought that Lazarus was faking it or was an addict.  If so, we would probably commend the rich man for refusing to be an enabler.  It is easy to find reasons to refuse charity.  We have more in common with the rich man than we would like to admit.  Repent.

     Of course, the greatest difference between the rich man and Lazarus was not wardrobe or diet or house or health.  In fact, the world could not know the real difference between these two because it was hidden.  Jesus, however, revealed it.  “The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side.  The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he … called out, ‘…I am in anguish in this flame’” (Luke 16:22-24).  In short, the rich man died an unbeliever, and Lazarus died trusting in God’s word. 

     While in the torments of hell, the rich man did not appeal to the Lord, but to Abraham.  The judgment against the rich man was uttered from heaven.  “Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish” (Luke 16:25).  Now, eternal judgment is not based on one’s poverty or wealth—as if God rewards the down-trodden because of what they suffered but condemns the rich because they had it easy.  After all, Abraham was a very rich man.  Judgment is not about evening the score.  The condemning words come in this phrase: “in your lifetime received your good things” (Luke 16:25).  The rich man loved his luxurious lifestyle.  He trusted in his wealth above all things.  His goal was to live a pampered life in worldly comforts—and he did!  But once he died, he lost all his good things.  What he loved and trusted did not save his life from the grave or from hell. 

     Lazarus, on the other hand, would have preferred health, a home, and the ability to earn an income.  For reasons known only to God, he was not blessed that way.  But he did have one good thing: God’s word.  The good things are found in God’s word.  Lazarus trusted in God’s promises that a Savior would deliver him out of a broken world and restore his broken body.  Those hardships are evidence that sin has corrupted this world and everything in it.  In fact, Lazarus himself was corrupted by sin.  All people are.  We are sinners—whether rich or poor, healthy or sick, generous or stingy.  All people fail to live up to the standard God has set: Love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.  Fear, love, and trust in God above all things. 

     For this reason, God did not send the rich man someone to advise him on the benefits of charitable giving.  Nor did he send Lazarus someone to put salve on his sores.  Both would have been good, but neither one would save.  So God sent a Savior.  Jesus Christ came to deliver all people out of their sinful condition.  You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that, though he was rich, yet he became poor.  Jesus did not live a glorious life here.  Instead, Jesus was devoted to gaining you a glorious life in the world to come.  Jesus lived in poverty and humility.  In fact, Jesus only once was dressed in lavish purple—when Roman soldiers wrapped on of their robes around him.  But then they stripped him naked and pinned him to a cross.

     At the cross, Jesus received bad things.  He was forsaken by his Father, condemned for sins he did not commit, and killed with a cursed death.  Jesus suffered the torments of hell that we deserve.  This Jesus did willingly; in fact, intentionally.  Jesus received these bad things so that you could receive good things.  You have been acquitted of your sins.  You have peace for your conscience.  You have rest for your souls, for all the work to secure God’s favor has been done.  You are free from any condemnation, and you are assured the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.  Lazarus’ horrible condition was temporary; but now he is blessed.  He feasts sumptuously every day.  He is dressed in robes of righteousness.  His body will be raised immortal and incorruptible.  And so it will be for you, as God promises.  The good things are found in God’s word.

     The rich man was sent to hell.  His situation would never change.  It would never improve, either.  Many people find this sentence to be too horrible for words.  We agree.  It is terrifying.  Many people say, “I would never worship a God who is eager to send people to hell.”  We agree.  For, the Lord is not eager to send anyone to hell.  That is why he sent Jesus—to deliver all people from such a terrible torment.  Hell was created for the devil and the demons who seek the damnation of all people.  It was never intended for people.  That’s not to say God won’t send anyone there; it’s just that hell is not God’s intention for anyone.  He is the God who saves—as the Scriptures reveal.  The good things are found in God’s word.

     As we take God’s word to heart, we may fear that some of our loved ones did not believe in God’s word.  We may even be sure of it, which means that our loved ones are in hell.  Who could not be grieved by that?  If you are, then listen to rich man’s plea.  He said, “I beg you, father, to send (Lazarus) to my father's house—for I have five brothers—so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment” (Luke 16:27-28).  The rich man did not want anyone to be in hell with him.  There was no desire for any reunion with loved ones in hell.  The rich man yearned that his brothers would be spared the fiery torment which he was suffering.  So, if you are convinced that you have a relative or a friend who has gone to hell, be assured of this: They don’t want you there with them. 

     So, what recourse do we have?  What can we do so that those who are still alive will never have to experience endless death, darkness, sorrow, and pain?  Abraham answered the rich man: “(Your brothers) have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them” (Luke 16:29).  In other words, they have the Scriptures.  The good things are found in God’s word.  God’s word proclaims how he delivers us from the curse of sin—through the blood of Jesus Christ.  God’s word reveals how we are delivered from the grave—Jesus has conquered death, holds authority over it, and will raise us up from the grave.  God’s word delivers the only good thing that endures and that saves.  Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.  There is no other hope, no other Savior, no other saving word.  But it is all that is needed.  The good things are found in God’s word.

     The rich man did not believe God’s word was sufficient.  He thought it needed to be more impressive, more flashy, more convincing.  “He said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’  (Abraham) said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead’” (Luke 16:30-31).  No gimmick will ever convince a sinner that God’s word is true if he refuses to believe it.  The fact of the matter is this: Shortly after Jesus told this story, there was a man named Lazarus whom Jesus raised from the dead.  Do you know what Jesus’ enemies concluded about that?  St. John wrote, “The chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus” (John 12:10-11). 

     What’s more, Jesus died and on the third day rose from the dead.  Those who despised God’s word all along were not convinced even though Jesus rose from the dead.  They created the lie to cover it up.  They perished in their sins and became more rich men in hell, but not because God cheated them out of mercy.  The good things are found in God’s word.  If saying, “This is what the Lord says,” does not convince people it is to be taken seriously, nothing will.

     Good things are found in God’s word.  That is the word which is preached to you week after week.  That is the word which was attached to water by which you were washed clean of all sin and marked by God’s name.  That is the word which consecrates wine and bread so that Jesus can give you his body and blood to strengthen your faith.  That is the word which begs to be read from your Bibles at home and discussed with your family so that they will cherish the good things that endure to eternity.

     Good things are found in that word—forgiveness of sins, encouragement to serve God in a broken world, confidence to stand before God when this world ends, and comfort for every day in this world until your time here ends.  But your time in God’s kingdom will not end.  We will join with Abraham, Lazarus, and all the people who believed God’s word and loved it.  This is the word by which the Lord speaks to you, and by which he saves you.

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

IssuesEtc.org on Prop 3 in Michigan

Here is another update about Prop 3, courtesy of IssuesEtc.org.  Prop 3 is a gateway to heinous practices, such as sterilization, abortion on demand regardless of age or parental consent, and protection of gender transition for minors.

Prop 3 intends to have these horrible and destructive practices firmly ensconced in the Michigan state constitution.  Lord, have mercy.  

Vote NO on Prop 3.

2864. A Proposed Michigan Constitutional Amendment Eliminating Parental Consent for Abortion and Sterilization of Minors – Margot Cleveland, 10/13/22 (issuesetc.org)

Update from Good Shepherd (October 13, 2022)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE

Divine Service is Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters meets on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM.  The schedule can be seen here. 

For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

JEREMIAH, THE WEEPING PROPHET

          On Sunday, October 16, we will begin a new series for Adult Bible Class. We will consider the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah is called the weeping prophet because, although he was faithful in his service as God’s prophet, he was grieved at the rebellion of God’s people and, eventually, at the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, the place where God had put his name.
          God’s people of all time do well to heed calls to repentance so that we do not lose the gifts God is eager to give. Therefore, we will hear Jeremiah preach to us and humbly take to heart his words of repentance and his words of promise.
          A tentative schedule for this class will can be found here.  

TRUNK OR TREAT
What we need
     > We will need people to decorate the trunks of their cars to hand out candy to our guests. Costumes are optional. At least ten cars will be necessary to make a good impression on our guests. 
     > We will need some people to staff the fellowship hall, to serve food to our guests, to welcome them in, and to clean up any messes that might be made.
     > We will need someone to collect names and contact information for the raffle we are putting together for our guests. This is the way we will be able to follow up on the people who visit us and to invite them to future events and to church.
     > We will need items to be placed in a raffle basket.

To sign up for any of these, please got to the Sign Up Genius page: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050A4FA8AA2EA64-trunk

Friday, October 21, 6:30 PM
    All are invited to a pumpkin carving event. The pumpkins we carve will be used to decorate the church grounds for the Trunk or Treat event on Saturday. We will also set up the fellowship hall so that we are ready for Saturday morning. After carving, we will have a bonfire at the parsonage. If the weather is prohibitive for a bonfire, we will assemble in the parsonage for fellowship. Please bring along a snack and whatever beverages you like.

Saturday, October 22, 10:00 AM – Noon
    Trunk or Treat day is here! If you are bringing your car, please be here no later than 9:30 AM so that our parking lot will be ready when guests arrive. (Some will arrive before 10:00 AM.) We will also need help setting up other activities for the Trunk or Treat event. Some can be taken care of Friday evening, but some will need to be done on Saturday morning.

After the Trunk or Treat event is over and we have cleaned up, you are welcome to stay for a chili dinner.

EVERY MEMBER VISITS – 2022

          Every 3-4 years, the pastor desires to meet with all members in their homes.  It is an opportunity to speak with each other in a less-than-formal setting. The pastor gets to know the people he serves better. It also allows for members to ask about matters that might be personal, to offer suggestions and ideas, to inquire about matters of the Bible that have them confused, or just general chit-chat. Visits would be about 45-60 minutes but can last longer if you want them to. You can also sign up through the links below.  Time slots are first come, first served.  The visits will be available throughout 2022.

          October: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050a4fa8aa2ea64-every9 

CHURCH COUNCIL NOTES

>>>   The Church Council has not made any formal decision yet on the purchase and implementation of the new hymnal (CW21).  We will make a presentation at our November Open Forum to allow for questions and reactions from the congregation.  The date for the Open Forum has yet to be set.

            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 1 of the Divine Service  sounds like, see the video at this link.
            If you would like to see and hear what Setting 2 of the Divine Service sounds like, see this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3L5rrhpWfc .  (The liturgy begins at the 14:30 mark.)

>>>  What is “the next thing” we will invite people to?  Getting people to our church for an event is only Step 1.  We want them to come back.  Our desire is to have them join us for worship, but that may not be Step 2.  What will we invite people to next so that they become more acquainted with us?  We want to foster that mentality so that we are always inviting people to Good Shepherd for one thing or another.  Our goal is that “the next thing” people come to will be a Bible Class or to worship.  For some, it will take a few community events before they are ready for that.  Look for a general schedule to be presented so that we always have “the next thing” in mind.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
Services are uploaded to YouTube each week, usually the Monday after the service. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from Sunday, October 2: (13) Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 2, 2022 - YouTube

OFFICE HOURS
          Office hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. The pastor will be in his office unless a meeting has been scheduled elsewhere (consult the weekly schedule). The pastor is also available by appointment. Call or text (248-719-5218). You may also email (welsnovi@aol.com), but the response may be slower.

DO YOU LIKE US?
Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

REGUARL SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will be on Wednesdays at 6:30 PM. 

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com

A Pastoral Concern about a constitutional amendment to establish abortion rights -- Updated

NOTE:  I offer some new thoughts.  This is updated from an earlier post (update 10/23/22).

The State of Michigan (among others) will give voters the opportunity to add an amendment to the state constitution which would establish and protect the "right" of a woman to get an abortion and of medical professionals to provide them, known as Proposal 3.  The verbiage of Proposal 3 is below in black; my comments are in red.  The verbiage which voters will see when they get their ballots on November 8 is all the way at the bottom.  

If you don't want to read all of this, here is the short version: Vote NO on Proposal 3; it is evil and promotes evil.

Or you can check out this video. 

CAVEAT: I am not a lawyer, so there may be some legalese which I may not fully recognize or understand, such as all of point 5 below.

First, an initial thought regarding a constitutional amendment: This should be hard.  Constitutions should not be so easy to have amendments attached to them.  Even if Proposal 3 were adopted (God forbid), it could simply be passed as a law, not forever ensconced in the state constitution.  The fact that people yearn so much to see abortion protected as a basic human right is an abomination.  One would think that a child in the womb has some basic rights.  This Proposal, if passed, denies that.

It also seems to me that Proposal 3 excuses men who father children from any responsibility or accountability for their actions.  I fear that many men would love this kind of "freedom," and certainly not to the benefit of the women they impregnate.

FULL TEXT OF PROPOSAL 3

AMENDMENT TO THE MICHIGAN CONSTITUTION

Article 1, Section 28 Right to Reproductive Freedom

(1) Every individual has a fundamental right to reproductive freedom, which entails the right to make and effectuate decisions about all matters relating to pregnancy, including but not limited to prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion care, miscarriage management, and infertility care.

This "freedom" is a myth from the start.  Many women long to get pregnant and to have a child.  For reasons known only to God, he occasionally withholds that blessing.

In the list of "including but not limited to," sterilization and abortion care stand out as markedly different than the other items listed.  These are not the same.  While sterilization may--almost certainly does--have several moral issues associated with it (e.g., rejection of God's gift of children), abortion is murder of a baby in the mother's womb.  In a place where it should be safe, it becomes most vulnerable to a vacuum, knife, or saline treatment that burns it to death.  Where are the rights of the child?

This phrase is also alarming: "Every individual has a fundamental right to ... sterilization."  What age are we talking about?  And the ensuing paragraph makes it even more disturbing that this individual's right "shall not be denied, burdened, nor infringed upon."  Does that mean a parent has no say if their twelve-year-old wants to be sterilized?  Parental rights matter, as children are not to be entrusted with such life-altering decisions.  That's why they are minors.

There may also be some issue with "infertility care," but I will pass by that for now.  The fact is that this bill is about abortion more than anything.

An individual’s right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, burdened, nor infringed upon unless justified by a compelling state interest achieved by the least restrictive means.

The phrase "compelling state interest": What could that be????

Notwithstanding the above, the state may regulate the provision of abortion care after fetal viability, provided that in no circumstance shall the state prohibit an abortion that, in the professional judgment of an attending health care professional, is medically indicated to protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant individual.

If a baby in the womb threatens the life of the mother, the death of the mother would likely result in the death of the baby as well.  This would result in a gut-wrenching decision to preserve the mother's life at the expense of her baby.  Such decisions produce great angst, and probably also great guilt.  These cases are worthy of our prayers for God's mercy.  Odds are, however, that the baby can be taken early and that both lives could be spared.  One would hope that this is the most sought after solution rather than abortion.

Does this clause mean that abortions would be legal right up to the moment of birth?  It sure seems to allow for it.

The phrase "physical or mental health of the pregnant individual" (you can say "woman" right?  that is the only biological choice, isn't it?) seems to open the door to abortion for any reason.  Can a woman claim, "This pregnancy is stressing me out" and have that be a mental health issue which is sufficient reason for abortion?  Can just the uncomfortableness of a pregnancy be a sufficient health issue to terminate a pregnancy?  Or maybe even, "I don't want to get fat"?  Based on the zeal to defend and protect abortion, I would guess so.

Who qualifies as "an attending health care professional"?

(2) The state shall not discriminate in the protection or enforcement of this fundamental right.

"Fundamental" right?  Based on what?  Who has decreed it fundamental?

"Shall not discriminate"?  No age limit at all?  What about a 4-year-old getting sterilized or receiving treatments for transitioning from boy to girl or vice versa?  That seems to me to be child abuse, not a fundamental right.  And this is protected?!?!

(3) The state shall not penalize, prosecute, or otherwise take adverse action against an individual based on their actual, potential, perceived, or alleged pregnancy outcomes, including but not limited to miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion. Nor shall the state penalize, prosecute, or otherwise take adverse action against someone for aiding or assisting a pregnant individual in exercising their right to reproductive freedom with their voluntary consent.

The fact that "miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion" are placed in succession would suggest that they are viewed as equal events.  A miscarriage and a stillbirth happen beyond the mother's control.  [Full disclosure: My wife and I have experienced both.]  An abortion is sought out to intentionally kill the baby.

The state shall not "penalize, prosecute, or otherwise take adverse action against someone for aiding or assisting a pregnant individual" from getting an abortion?  So, parents can be kept in the dark about a mid-teen-aged child getting an abortion with the assistance of someone else?  Do the parents play any role in their children's lives, or are they viewed as a danger to their own children?  Is "reproductive freedom" the highest good, and is the government's decree to be stronger than a parent's role?

(4) For the purposes of this section:

A state interest is “compelling” only if it is for the limited purpose of protecting the health of an individual seeking care, consistent with accepted clinical standards of practice and evidence-based medicine, and does not infringe on that individual’s autonomous decision-making.

You will have to pardon me if I consider the phrase "evidence-based medicine" a disingenuous phrase.  Ultrasounds have produced undeniable evidence that the fetus is a human being, and that an abortion kills that human being.  In every other context, that is known as murder.  It certainly is not a "fundamental right."

For the woman who gets an abortion.  Status on your way into the abortion clinic: You have a baby growing in your uterus.  Status after the abortion: You do not have a baby growing in your uterus.  It has been forcefully, violently, grotesquely removed.  That is evidence-based medicine.

“Fetal viability” means: the point in pregnancy when, in the professional judgment of an attending health care professional and based on the particular facts of the case, there is a significant likelihood of the fetus’s sustained survival outside the uterus without the application of extraordinary medical measures.

"Extraordinary medical measures" -- Does this include NICU?

(5) This section shall be self-executing. Any provision of this section held invalid shall be severable from the remaining portions of this section.

Source: proposal-3-reproductive-freedom-constitutional-amendment-language.pdf (grdiocese.org)

There are numerous other sources which raise issues about Proposal 3.  One example is here.  It is a bad law.  It is supporting and legalizing the butchering of babies in the womb.  It is an assault on fatherhood and motherhood.  It is an offense before God.  Vote NO on Proposal 3; it is evil and promotes evil.

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This is what you will see on the ballot:

Proposal 3 – Reproductive Freedom for All

"Proposal 22-3

A proposal to amend the state constitution to establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy; allow state to prohibit abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising established right

This proposed constitutional amendment would:

• Establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make and carry out all decisions about pregnancy, such as prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion, miscarriage management, and infertility;
• Allow state to prohibit abortion after fetal viability unless needed to protect a patient’s life or physical or mental health;
• Forbid state discrimination in enforcement of this right; prohibit prosecution of an individual, or a person helping a pregnant individual, for exercising rights established by this amendment; and invalidate all state laws that conflict with this amendment.

Should this proposal be adopted?
[ ] YES
[ ] NO"

 Source: Here is language for the 3 petitions MI voters will see on the November ballot (wxyz.com)