Old Testament – Confident.Faith

2 Samuel 06–08

David Attempts to Bring Up the Ark; David Brings Up the Ark; God Promises to Establish David’s Line; David Conquers Israel’s Enemies

2 Samuel 03–05

The House of Saul and House of David Engage in Warfare; David and Abenner Make a Covenant; Joab Murders Abenner

Today we commemorate C. F. W. Walther, Theologian. Father of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Carl Ferdinand Wilhelm Walther emigrated from Saxony in Germany with other Lutherans in 1839. Settling in Missouri, he served as pastor of several congregations in St. Louis, founded Concordia Seminary, and was instrumental in the formation of the LCMS in 1847. Walther would serve as president of the Synod from 1847 to 1850 and then again from 1864 to 1878. Walther worked tirelessly to promote Confessional Lutheranism in the US. A prolific writer and speaker, Walther’s works are still widely used today, particularly including his book on the distinction between Law and Gospel.

2 Samuel 01–02

David Hears of Saul’s Death; David Returns to Israel; David Becomes King of Judah

1 Samuel 26–31

The Allophyles Go to War with Israel; David Recovers the Captives and the Goods; Israel Is Defeated and Saul Is Killed

Today we commemorate Friedrich the Wise, Christian Ruler. Elector of Saxony from 1486 to 1525, Friedrich the Wise was instrumental to the Reformation. Although he never met Luther, Friedrich aided Luther significantly, including refusing to extradite Luther when the pope demanded it in 1518 and arranging for Luther to be ‘kidnapped’ and safely hidden in Wartburg Castle after the Diet of Worms. Beloved of his subjects, Friedrich was called "the Wise" for his sense of fairness and his justice. Upon his deathbed, Friedrich received the Lord’s Supper in both kinds — a clear confession of his Lutheran faith.

1 Samuel 26–28

Saul Pursues David (Again); David Spares Saul (Again); David Flees to Foreigners; Saul Consults a Medium