-37.  What does it mean to be first when it comes to Christ's kingdom? Be first A. By pursuing excellence in your Christian life. B. By serving others in Jesus’ name.  Preached on September 6, 2015, for the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, at St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church (WELS), Hancock, MN.  Written copy available at: http://hancocklutheran.org/sermons/Be-First-Mark9_30-37.html

St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church is a Bible-based church, centered on the Good News of Jesus, our divine Savior from sin. These weekly messages from God's Word seek to build us up in Christ, as the Holy Spirit strengthens our faith in God's promises and binds us together in Christian love. Through his Word and Sacraments we are caught by Jesus. St. John's is located in Hancock, Minnesota and is a member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Scripture quotations often taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION(R). NIV(R). Copyright (C) 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society.