Faith Comes By Hearing

Dr. Larson unpacks Jesus’ explosive claim “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” contrasting Christianity’s bold exclusive truth with the world’s fuzzy “all roads lead to God” illusion in this post-COVID America. Follow the risen Christ with courage through every fear and cultural storm, discover in Him the only path to forgiveness, vibrant life today, and eternal joy in the Father’s house.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

Like David before us, we are called to move from a small, restrictive view of Christ to one of awe and devotion, trusting that the Creator of the universe is personally and lovingly concerned with every detail of our lives. Whether life is flourishing or filled with hardship and loss, the Good Shepherd never leaves our side; walking with us through the darkest valleys, laying down His life so that we might never be forsaken, and bringing us at last to dwell in His house forever.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

Jesus' appearance to two disciples on the road to Emmaus highlights their despair due to misunderstanding Holy Scripture. Jesus clarifies that Old Testament prophecies required the Messiah's suffering for victory over sin. Christ Jesus calls His followers to rely solely upon God's Word and Sacraments for peace and an increased awareness of Christ's presence with his followers especially during uncertain times.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

Dr. Cary Larson explores the "Office of the Keys," examining how Jesus empowered his disciples to forgive sins through the Holy Spirit. Reflecting on Thomas’s journey from disbelief to a bold confession of faith, true forgiveness and restoration are gifts offered to all who repent through Christ’s enduring grace.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org 

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Hallelujah! In this powerful Easter sermon, Dr. Cary Larson proclaims the undeniable truth of the empty tomb and the living Savior who conquered death for you, delivering unshakable hope, full forgiveness, and the promise of your own resurrection.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

On Maundy Thursday we confess that Christ Jesus gives His own body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins in/with/under the elements of the Sacrament of the Altar. In the bread, Christ gives us His body, broken for us. In the wine, He gives us His blood, poured out for us. Through this perfect sacrifice, all our betrayals and sins are forgiven, and God is fully justified in forgiving us.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

On this Palm Sunday, one name echoes over the shouts of "Hosanna," the name above all names. Join us as Dr. Larson explores the humble King who rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, emptied Himself to become a servant, and willingly went to the cross for you. Discover the power, love, and salvation wrapped up in the name of Jesus.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

In this profound episode of "Faith Comes by Hearing," Dr. Larson explores the vital relationship between the physical act of breathing and our spiritual existence. The preached Word of God serves as an invitation to receive the restorative breath of Christ Jesus, which extends beyond our mortal life into an everlasting, physical resurrection.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

This episode of Faith Comes by Hearing explores the profound tension between light and darkness, illustrating how sin often blinds us to our own spiritual condition. Through the call of Christ, we are invited to abandon that darkness and step into the transformative light of His mercy and grace.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Dr. Larson explores the parallel between the Israelites' grumbling in the wilderness and our own modern discontent, identifying our frequent complaining as a fundamental distrust in God's providence. Christ Jesus is the true Rock struck at Calvary, whose sacrifice provides the "Water of Life" through Word and Sacrament to sustain and forgive us on our earthly journey.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Abraham's faith and trust in God's promises were steadfast despite the impossibility of achieving them according to human reason. This is the essence of true Christian faith believing against human reason and relying solely on God's word and promises.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Jesus’ time in the wilderness serves as a vicarious victory where, as the "true Israel," he remained perfectly obedient to God’s word in the exact places where humanity and the ancient Israelites failed. Rather than being just a "how-to" for us to resisting sin, His triumph represents a perfect sacrifice made on behalf of believers who can never save themselves.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Jesus is far more than a moral example; He is the "Word made flesh" who reduced the terrifying glory of God into a human form so that we could receive Him as our God. In this episode, Dr. Larson clarifies that by shifting our focus from Jesus as a teacher to Jesus as our Savior, we move from a place of terror before a holy God to the peace of being His beloved and redeemed children.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

When Christ Jesus provides a list of wonderful beatitudes and yet we find ourselves wanting, what is the answer to our problem? In this episode, Dr. Larson points to the Christ Jesus as the only solution to our paradoxical life of being a saint and at the same time a sinner. For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

If the Church is sanctified, Christ's people gathering around Word and Sacrament, how is it that there is always conflict? In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson encourage us to find peace and concord in the only ONE that can lead His Church through the drama that has always existed in the Church. For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

The Church is defined as "holy" not because of the merit of its members, but because it is the place where Christ is present through Word and Sacrament to bring His heavenly kingdom to sinners. Ultimately, the Church is a unique fellowship where Christ provides and sustains His people and keeps them in the true faith until the day of His returnFor more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Dr. Larson highlights the biblical teaching that baptism is a burial into the death of Christ, liberating us from our sinful nature. By dying to the old self through the waters of baptism, the believer is freed from the power of sin and united with Jesus in His resurrection. As St. Paul proclaims, "We shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like His."For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Is Christianity truly about your own efforts to be good, or is it built on a foundation of something far more radical? Dr. Larson explores the transformative power of Christ's perfect obedience and how His righteousness is gifted to you through faith alone. Join us to discover how living out of gratitude, rather than the fear of failing the law, can reshape your entire perspective on faith and life.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this Christmas sermon from the Faith Comes by Hearing podcast, Dr. Cary Larson explores the biblical account of the angel's announcement to shepherds about the birth of Jesus and to look for the sign of swaddling clothes. The challenge is our human tendency to believe we must earn God's love or bring offerings to the manger, contrasting it with the unconditional grace and aid God offers. There is a connection of the manger to Jesus' later burial in linen cloths and resurrection, presenting Christmas as a celebration of God's gift of salvation through Christ, bringing great joy and peace to all who receive it.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Rev. Dr. Cary Larson reflects on the true meaning of the Christmas season and sends blessings too all this Christmas season. Merry Christmas!For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

This  episode of "Faith Comes By Hearing," Dr. Cary Larson, call our attention to the theme of trusting God's plan of salvation amidst worldly crises and the contrast between true faith and feigned piety. While human experiences and emotions are unreliable, the victory over sin, death, and the devil is secured through Christ Jesus. We are to stand, like children looking forward to Christmas, joyously waiting for the final days of Advent and the ultimate promise of Christ’s return.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Christ Jesus' coming is ultimately good news for the redeemed, offering comfort and the promise of complete victory over sin and suffering. Rather than fearing judgment, we are encouraged to stand firm in the grace and promise of Christ, who is our Holy Highway. This Advent, Dr. Larson ask us to remember that Christ has already made a way for us, assuring that the ransomed will return to him with everlasting joy.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson teaches that Scriptures provide endurance and encouragement so that we may have hope, which is founded on Christ who fulfilled God's promises to unite both Jews and Gentiles to glorify God. This hope from God fills believers with joy and peace through faith, enabling them to overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and wait for the return of Christ Jesus in the Second Advent.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

The season is Advent seems to run in conflict with the way of the culture and is not what people expect. The coming of the Son of Man will be at a time when people least expect it, Jesus said. People will be marrying and living their lives just as in the days of Noah before the flood came unexpectedly. With this in mind, Dr. Larson encourages Christians to be in the Word of God and be prepared for Christ’s return at any time.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

God instructed the Israelites to remember the humbling and testing of the wilderness, where God provided for them. At home in the Promised Land, they were to remember the blessings from the Lord when they have eaten and are full, and resist the temptation of forgetting, which will lead to ruin. Dr. Larson reminds us to make Thanksgiving an act of humble gratitude and intentional remembrance of the abundance from God including eternal life through Christ Jesus.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In the Gospel of Mark Christ Jesus describes the dramatic, undeniable event of his return. His first act as the returning King will be to send his angels to "gather his elect from the four winds," marking the completion of his reign. With this in mind, Dr. Larson proclaims the significants to the Christian what this means in light of worshiping Christ Jesus as King.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Romans 7 describes the inner turmoil of the Christian who, made aware of sin by the good Law of God, is powerless on their own to consistently overcome sin's presence within their "flesh," leading to a desperate cry for deliverance. For contemporary Christians, Dr. Larson affirms that the struggle against indwelling sin is a universal Christian experience, however God's Word shows us that the moral law is useful for revealing our sinfulness but ultimately pointing us to our essential need for Jesus Christ for rescue and victory.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson explains how St. Paul uses the imagery of baptism to show that believers are united with Christ in His death, resulting in freedom from sin's power and the death of the "old self." This union ensures that just as Christ Jesus was raised from the dead, believers are also raised to walk in newness of life and are guaranteed a future bodily resurrection, making a life of deliberate sin incompatible with their new identity.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Is there a robe for you at the coming of Christ? Dr. Larson sermon for All Saints Sunday and proclaims to all that the words of Christ Jesus is clear as recorded in the Gospel of St. John: "And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”(John 6: 40).  Blessed Feast of All Saints!For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In the episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson establishes a profound theological comparison between the first man, Adam, and Jesus Christ. Adam's single act of disobedience brought sin and condemnation, resulting in death reigning over all humanity. In stark contrast, Christ's single righteous act brings an overwhelming abundance of grace, justification, and the "gift of righteousness."  God's grace through Christ not only nullifies the effects of Adam's sin but far surpasses it, causing those who receive it to "reign in life."For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

This episode of Faith Comes by Hearing Dr. Larson proclaims that this divine perfect timing of Christ Jesus demonstrates the unparalleled extent of God's love, as He acted not when we earned it, but when we were still sinners and His enemies. Because Jesus died to reconcile us to God at the perfect time, believers have the secure hope that they "shall be saved by him from the wrath of God" and rejoice in the finished work of reconciliation.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In the Book of Habakkuk, we hear the prophet's desperate cry: "How long, O Lord?" as he witnesses a world consumed by violence and injustice. Yet, out of the despair of the prophet's complaint, God delivers one of the most vital declarations in all of Scripture: "The righteous shall live by his faith."  Dr. Larson encourages us that as we face modern hostility and persecution, we turn to the sure and certain hope that our Lord, Christ Jesus has already conquered evil, and that we are saved and sustained by faith alone.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Cary Larson addresses the fact that we are saved by grace alone through the work of Christ Jesus alone. Which means it is either Jesus does everything for your salvation or salvation isn't by grace and everyone has to work out their salvation. If one has to work towards salvation, who then can be saved? Paul is clear in his letter to the Americans.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this podcast, Dr. Cary Larson addresses the tendency for people to believe they can contribute to their own salvation, a struggle he notes was present in the early Roman church and is still an issue today. The purpose of God's law, as St. Paul states, is to silence every mouth and make the whole world accountable to God. Therefore, salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone, and it is only by God's power and mercy that we can do good and stand holy and blameless before Him.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

Dr. Larson continues in the series called "St. Paul's Letter to the Americans" examining the second half of the first chapter of Romans. Here St. Paul explains that humanity is utterly lost and cannot be saved except by the Gospel of Christ Jesus. Therefore all of God's wrath against sin was poured out on Christ Jesus on the cross, and those who have faith in Him are saved.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In the series, Dr. Larson presents the importance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as it is presented in St. Paul's letter to the Romans. The emphasis in Romans on salvation through grace alone, through faith alone, through Christ alone directly addresses the persistent problem of hypocrisy and division, which have been and are issues in American Christianity. For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson discusses how Christ Jesus admonished the Church in Laodicea and is a warning to contemporary churches and believers, this complacent church represents those who are comfortable and complacent in their faith, dulling their spiritual zeal and connection to God. But even in this stinging message there is hope that only Christ Jesus can offer.For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing Dr. Larson discusses how Christ Jesus commends the Church in Philadelphia for their faithfulness and perseverance despite their weakness, promising to keep them from the hour of trial that will come upon the world. Like Church of Philadelphia, Christ Jesus will acknowledge contemporary churches for their loyalty in keeping His word and not denying His name, assuring them of an open door of opportunity that no one can shut. For more information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches go to TAALC.org.

In the episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson discusses the letter from Christ Jesus to the Church in Sardis, a congregation that had a strong reputation but was spiritually dead and indifferent. While the other churches in Revelation received some praise alongside criticism, the Sardis congregation received none, as their faith was a "performance" for others rather than a genuine devotion to God. Despite their deadness, Jesus extended a merciful call to repentance, which the church heeded, leading to their eventual revival as noted in later historical records.

In the episode of Faith Come by Hearing, Dr. Larson examines Revelation 2:18-27 where Christ Jesus addresses the church in Thyatira, who were tolerant of false teaching in their midst. In this account, Christ Jesus is clear that only true faith in Him and Him alone offer to liberty and freedom.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

In the episode of Faith Come by Hearing, Dr. Larson examines Revelation 2:12-17, where Christ Jesus addresses the church in Pergamum, who is under the influences of false gods. In this account, Christ Jesus is clear that there shall be no other gods in the Christian life and He will strengthen His people to reject false religions. Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

In the episode of Faith Come by Hearing, Dr. Larson reflects on Revelation 2:8-11, where Christ Jesus commends the church in Smyrna for being under persecution and encourages them to be faithful unto the end. In the account Christ Jesus is clear that He will strengthen His people to persevere against persecution and falsehood. Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

In the episode of Faith Come by Hearing, Dr. Larson reflects on Revelation 2:1-7, where Christ Jesus commends the church in Ephesus for its steadfastness and doctrinal purity amid a wealthy, idolatrous culture, yet admonishes them for losing their first love for Him and for one another. Dr. Larson warns against the false dichotomy between doctrinal faithfulness and Christian love, emphasizing that true faith requires both unwavering adherence to Scripture and fervent love inspired by Christ’s sacrifice. Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

We all seek a purpose in our lives and many are perplex how to determine it. In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, Dr. Larson points to the words of Christ Jesus that speaks quite clearly what is the purpose for each of us in this life. Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

There are many opinions about forgiveness. Some experts argue that forgiveness isn’t necessary and that telling people to forgive can invalidate their trauma. Dr. Larson explores how Christ Jesus calls us to forgive—not to hurt us, but for our own sake, to find freedom and healing. We are encouraged to forgive quickly, deeply, and as often as needed, with His loving and merciful guidance.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

Misquoting Jesus can have significant consequences.  By misquoting Jesus, we can actually be part of the devil’s work to hinder the Kingdom of God.  With this mindset Dr. Larson will begin a summer preaching series, “Things Jesus Never Said.” The first of this series is of words Jesus never said nor will ever say, "I am so disappointed in you."Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

The door of life opens by keeping Christ Jesus’ word. This is not just about doing things, but a heartfelt response of faith that wholeheartedly believes Jesus has accomplished everything needed for life and salvation. In this extended episode of Faith Come By Hearing, Dr Larson illustrates that Faith transcends mere intellectual reason; it is a deep trust that God in Christ, who existed before Abraham, who was with God in the beginning, and who is Himself God, has infused eternal life and His Holy Spirit into the spirit of every believer.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

On the day of Pentecost, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide and counsel the first believers. That same Holy Spirit acts within the Church today, creating faith and guiding believers to keep the Word of Christ Jesus, which is also the Word of the Father who sent Him.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org

In this episode of Faith Comes by Hearing, with the Ascension of Christ Jesus to the "right hand of God the Father Almighty," Dr. Larson using the historical disagreement between Luther and Zwingli on the real presence in Holy Communion, highlights the tension between human reason and divine revelation, encouraging listeners to trust in Christ's promises over rational limitations.Information about The American Association of Lutheran Churches (TAALC) can be found at www.taalc.org