The Two Kingdoms

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17 ESV

Dear Members and Friends of Trinity Downtown:

We are blessed to live in the United States. Despite our economic problems, history of racism, and imperfect democracy, we surely live in one of the safest, freest and most prosperous nations that the planet has seen. We have been given much, so much will be required; it is our collective responsibility to see that these blessings are passed on, improved, to our children and grandchildren.

Luther’s theology of “two governments” really help us understand the relationship between our civil government and the spiritual world. He teaches that God has ordained the civil government (the “kingdom of the left”) to keep the peace, enforce the laws, and promote economic prosperity. God’s Kingdom exists in the heart of true Christians, where they enjoy God’s grace and love. Luther taught that Christians should live in such a way that satisfies both of these kingdoms, serving God inwardly and the neighbor outwardly. We simultaneously live in God’s kingdom and under civil authority.

Just like the creation of our American government required the sacrifice of our fathers in their armed revolution against the king of England, the creation of God’s kingdom in our hearts required the sacrifice of Someone infinitely precious.

We continue to be deeply thankful for the God-inspired work of our medical professionals who developed and are distributing the COVID vaccines, and who continue to care for those afflicted with this disease. We are constantly reviewing our COVID-related safety protocols so that we’re in line with current government regulations and the evolving scientific guidelines. Our guidelines for this weekend’s services will be unchanged from the prior week:

• Masks are now optional for everyone regardless of vaccination status;
• RSVPs are no longer required, and you may enter the campus using whatever door you choose. Be sure to sign in at one of our “check-in” stations to register your worship attendance. We’ll have volunteers available to assist you with navigating the check-in process.
• Open seating for worship in the Sanctuary except for the back pews on the pulpit side. We are reserving the back pews on the pulpit side for those who prefer the option of social-distancing;
• Now that we have open seating, please continue to be alert and considerate of those around you who may be hesitant to sit close, shake hands or hug;
• Prepackaged snacks and coffee will be available in the Gathering Space on Sunday morning after the worship service; and
• Open seating for Satellite worship with the chairs spaced out.

Learn how placing our worries, hopes, plans and fears in the hands of Jesus can lessen our stress load and bring deep transformation in our hearts. Celebrate with us the depth of Jesus’ love for us, and find out how you can live a life of significance, filled with meaning.  Discover how following Jesus can help you and your family navigate around the minefields of life.

This weekend come get a fresh jolt of spiritual energy at Trinity Downtown. It will make a tremendous difference in your life.

Your Pastor,

Michael Dorn