Pastor David Balla

In this Fourth Sunday in Advent sermon, Immanuel in the Midst of Our Doubt, we hear the comforting and challenging Word of God from Isaiah 7:10–14 and Matthew 1:18–23 (ESV). As Christmas draws near, Scripture does not present flawless heroes of faith, but fearful hearts and wavering trust. King Ahaz refuses God’s promise. Joseph wrestles with confusion and fear. Yet into doubt and weakness, God speaks His unshakable Gospel: Immanuel—God with us.From a confessional Lutheran (LCMS) perspective, this sermon clearly distinguishes Law and Gospel. The Law exposes how even religious-sounding words can mask unbelief. The Gospel proclaims that salvation does not depend on the strength of our faith, but on the faithfulness of God fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Christ comes not to reward the confident, but to save sinners, forgive doubt, and give faith through His Word and Sacraments.This Advent sermon points weary consciences away from inward certainty and toward the external promise of Christ crucified and risen for you.