Holy Cross is a home for sinners, a refuge for the weak, and a hiding place for those in need of Christ's great mercy.  We are a congregation of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod.  Our pastor is Rev. Todd A. Peperkorn.

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Day of Pentecost, June 4, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: John 7:37-39 
Sermon Theme: “The Living Water of the Spirit” 
 
Old Testament: Numbers 11:24–30 
Epistle: Acts 2:1–21 
Holy Gospel: John 7:37–39 
 
The Risen Lord Jesus Pours Out the Holy Spirit 
 
The Lord took “some of the Spirit” that was on Moses “and put it on the seventy elders” of Israel (Num. 11:25), and they “prophesied in the camp” (Num. 11:26). In the same way, our risen Lord Jesus poured out His Holy Spirit at the Feast of Pentecost — the 50th day and the “Eighth Sunday” of Easter. When “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” and “tongues as of fire appeared” and rested on each of the 12 apostles, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” and proclaimed “the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:2–4, 11). The Lord Jesus grants this same Spirit to His Church on earth to proclaim Him glorified on the cross and risen victorious from the grave for us sinners. From His open heart, our crucified and risen Lord pours out His Holy Spirit in “rivers of living water” (John 7:38) and invites everyone who thirsts to come to Him and drink freely (John 7:37). Through this life-giving work of the Holy Spirit, we hear our pastors “telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:11), and “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Day of Pentecost, June 4, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: John 7:37-39
Sermon Theme: “The Living Water of the Spirit”
 
Old Testament: Numbers 11:24–30
Epistle: Acts 2:1–21
Holy Gospel: John 7:37–39

The Risen Lord Jesus Pours Out the Holy Spirit

The Lord took “some of the Spirit” that was on Moses “and put it on the seventy elders” of Israel (Num. 11:25), and they “prophesied in the camp” (Num. 11:26). In the same way, our risen Lord Jesus poured out His Holy Spirit at the Feast of Pentecost — the 50th day and the “Eighth Sunday” of Easter. When “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” and “tongues as of fire appeared” and rested on each of the 12 apostles, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” and proclaimed “the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:2–4, 11). The Lord Jesus grants this same Spirit to His Church on earth to proclaim Him glorified on the cross and risen victorious from the grave f

2017-06-04 - Day of Pentecost - Sermon: "The Living Water of the Spirit" - John 7:37-39

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Midweek Lent 5, April 5, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 22:1-14 
Sermon Theme: “Nuptial Feast” 
 
Old Testament: Isaiah 61:10—62:5 
Epistle: Revelation 21:1-4 
Holy Gospel: Matthew 22:1-14 
 
The biblical writers frequently use marital terms to speak of God’s relationship with His people and the salvation that He has prepared for His Bride. For example, “For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your sons marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). This imagery is carried over into the New Testament, as Christ identifies Himself as the Bridegroom of the Church (Matthew 9:15; 25:1). No wedding would be complete without a wedding feast, and it is no different with the marriage of Christ and the Church. As the Bride of Christ feasts on the salutary gift of the Lord’s Supper, she enjoys a foretaste of that eternal wedding feast to come. Drawing on this theme, the hymn “Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness” (LSB 636) urges the faithful to “Hasten as a bride to meet Him, And with loving rev’rence greet Him” (St. 2) as she anticipates His coming in the bread and wine of Holy Communion. Those who “receive this sacrament worthily” are those who have the wedding garment of faith in these words: “Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Midweek Lent 5, April 5, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Matthew 22:1-14
Sermon Theme: “Nuptial Feast”

Old Testament: Isaiah 61:10—62:5
Epistle:  Revelation 21:1-4
Holy Gospel: Matthew 22:1-14 

The biblical writers frequently use marital terms to speak of God’s relationship with His people and the salvation that He has prepared for His Bride. For example, “For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your sons marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). This imagery is carried over into the New Testament, as Christ identifies Himself as the Bridegroom of the Church (Matthew 9:15; 25:1). No wedding would be complete without a wedding feast, and it is no different with the marriage of Christ and the Church. As the Bride of Christ feasts on the salutary gift of the Lord’s Supper, she enjoys a foretaste of that eternal wedding f

2017-04-05 - Midweek Lent 5 - Sermon: "Nuptal Feast" - Matthew 22:1-14

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Transfiguration of Our Lord, February 26, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 17:1-9 
Sermon Theme: “Perspective” 
 
Old Testament: Exodus 24:8–18 
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16–21 
Holy Gospel: Matthew 17:1–9 
 
God Manifests His Glory in the Body of Christ Jesus, Transfigured for Us by His Cross 
 
The Transfiguration confirms “the prophetic word … to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place” (2 Peter 1:19). The divine glory of Jesus is manifested in the word of His apostles, who were “eyewitnesses of his majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). “He was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun” (Matt. 17:2). Moses and Elijah witnessed the fulfillment of the Old Testament in this Lord Jesus, and the Father testified concerning Him: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 17:5). By His own blood, shed on the cross, Jesus makes and seals the new covenant with us. Hence, “the appearance of the glory of the LORD” is no longer “like a devouring fire” (Ex. 24:17), but it is graciously revealed in His own body. As “Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel” went up the mountain with Moses and “beheld God, and ate and drank” (Ex. 24:9, 11), we also behold the Lord our God in Christ Jesus, and we abide with Him as we eat and drink His body and blood at the altar.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Transfiguration of Our Lord, February 26, 2017, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Matthew 17:1-9
Sermon Theme: “Perspective”

Old Testament: Exodus 24:8–18
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16–21
Holy Gospel: Matthew 17:1–9

God Manifests His Glory in the Body of Christ Jesus, Transfigured for Us by His Cross

The Transfiguration confirms “the prophetic word … to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place” (2 Peter 1:19). The divine glory of Jesus is manifested in the word of His apostles, who were “eyewitnesses of his majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). “He was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun” (Matt. 17:2). Moses and Elijah witnessed the fulfillment of the Old Testament in this Lord Jesus, and the Father testified concerning Him: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matt. 17:5). By His own blood, shed on the cross, Jesus makes and seals the new cov

2017-02-26 - Transfiguration of Our Lord - Sermon: "Perspective" - Matthew 17:1-9

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventh Sunday After the Epiphany, February 19, 2017, by Rev. Craig Donofrio, Missionary to Eurasia. 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 5:38-48 
Sermon Theme: “You Can’t Do It” 
 
Old Testament: Leviticus 19:1–2, 9–18 
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 3:10–23 
Holy Gospel: Matthew 5:38–48 
 
God Manifests His Perfect Holiness in Christ through Compassion and Forgiveness 
 
God reveals His perfect holiness in compassion as “he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matt. 5:45). By His grace in Jesus Christ, we are holy just as He is holy (Lev. 19:2), and we are “God’s temple” in whom “God’s Spirit dwells” (1 Cor. 3:16). This gift of holiness begins with fearing, loving and trusting God above all things, and it leads us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Lev. 19:18). No longer should we practice “injustice in court.” No longer should we “be partial to the poor or defer to the great.” No longer should we “go around as a slanderer” among God’s people. No longer should we “take vengeance or bear a grudge” (Lev. 19:15–18). Though we were His enemies, our Lord Jesus Christ has loved us and forgiven us. Nourished and sustained by His holy body and blood under the bread and wine of His holy Supper, we “shall be holy” (Lev. 19:2) even as the Lord our God is holy. 
 
Rev. Craig and Paula Donofrio, Missionaries to Eurasia 
Your Prayers and financial support are making Jesus Christ known in Eurasia! 
We thank God for your love and partnership in the work of the Gospel!

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventh Sunday After the Epiphany, February 19, 2017, by Rev. Craig Donofrio, Missionary to Eurasia.

Sermon Text: Matthew 5:38-48
Sermon Theme: “You Can’t Do It”

Old Testament: Leviticus 19:1–2, 9–18
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 3:10–23
Holy Gospel: Matthew 5:38–48

God Manifests His Perfect Holiness in Christ through Compassion and Forgiveness

God reveals His perfect holiness in compassion as “he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matt. 5:45). By His grace in Jesus Christ, we are holy just as He is holy (Lev. 19:2), and we are “God’s temple” in whom “God’s Spirit dwells” (1 Cor. 3:16). This gift of holiness begins with fearing, loving and trusting God above all things, and it leads us to love our neighbor as ourselves (Lev. 19:18). No longer should we practice “injustice in court.” No longer should we “be partial to the poor or defer to the great.” 

2017-02-19 - Sermon: "You Can't Do It" - Matthew 5:38-48 - Rev. Craig Donofrio

Bible Class: “(Joseph) took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (ESV)” on January 29, 2017 led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Matthew 1:22-25 
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 
Matt. 1:23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. 
 
First Question: 
- What does the verb “to know” mean? 
- What does the improper preposition “until” mean? 
 
(EPIGINOSKO) 
3rd person, singular, active indicative 
- “to become acquainted with, to come to know something” 
- Hebraism, coming from the verb “yada” which may mean “to have sexual relations with”. Here’s an example in the OT: 
- “They rose early in the morning and worshiped before the Lord; then they went back to their house at Ramah. And Elkanah KNEW Hannah his wife, and the LORD remembered her.” (1 Samuel 1:19 ESV) 
 
What do we take from all of this? 
 
- SOLA SCRIPURA doesn’t mean that we know everything. 
- There room for differences of opinion on the Scriptures, and there is freedom to believe different things where the Scriptures are open. 
- Let’s not make matters divisive in the Church that don’t need to be divisive.

Bible Class: “(Joseph) took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (ESV)” on January 29, 2017 led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Matthew 1:22-25
22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:
Matt. 1:23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.

First Question:
- What does the verb “to know” mean?
- What does the improper preposition “until” mean?

(EPIGINOSKO)
3rd person, singular, active indicative
- “to become acquainted with, to come to know something”
- Hebraism, coming from the verb “yada” which may mean “to have sexual relations with”. Here’s an example in the OT:
-  “They rose early in the morning and worshiped before the Lord; then they went back 

2017-01-29 - "Matthew 1:22-25 (Joseph) Took His Wife But Knew Her Not"

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the First Sunday In Advent, November 27, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 21:1-11 
Sermon Theme: “The Lord Needs Them” 
 
Old Testament: Isaiah 2:1–5 
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14 
Holy Gospel: Matthew 21:1–11 
 
The Lord Comes in Meekness and Humility to Save Us Now 
 
The Lord Jesus enters Jerusalem “humble, and mounted on a donkey,” riding on “a beast of burden” (Matt. 21:5), as He Himself bears the sins of the world in His body. Now He comes by the ministry of the Gospel to save us from sin, death, the devil and hell. Therefore, we sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matt. 21:9). For we are called “to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob,” His holy Church, “that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths” (Is. 2:3). By His Word, we “walk in the light of the LORD” (Is. 2:5). That is to live in love, which “does no wrong to a neighbor” (Rom. 13:10). We “cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light,” for “salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11, 12). Hence, the entire Christian life is a time to wake and watch, “for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming” (Matt. 24:42).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the First Sunday In Advent, November 27, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Matthew 21:1-11
Sermon Theme: “The Lord Needs Them”

Old Testament: Isaiah 2:1–5
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14
Holy Gospel: Matthew 21:1–11

The Lord Comes in Meekness and Humility to Save Us Now

The Lord Jesus enters Jerusalem “humble, and mounted on a donkey,” riding on “a beast of burden” (Matt. 21:5), as He Himself bears the sins of the world in His body. Now He comes by the ministry of the Gospel to save us from sin, death, the devil and hell. Therefore, we sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matt. 21:9). For we are called “to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob,” His holy Church, “that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths” (Is. 2:3). By His Word, we “walk in the light of the LORD” (Is. 2:5). That is to live in love, which “does no wrong to a neighbor” (Rom.

2016-11-27 - Advent 1 - Sermon: "The Lord Needs Them" - Matthew 21:1-11

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 20, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 23:27-43 
Sermon Theme: “Ruling From the Cross” 
 
Old Testament: Malachi 3:13–18 
Epistle: Colossians 1:13–20 
Holy Gospel: Luke 23:27–43 
 
Jesus Christ Reigns, Enduring the Cross — Its Scorn and Shame 
 
The Lord Jesus reigns in love among those who are baptized in His name. “They shall be mine,” He says, “and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him” (Mal. 3:17). Jesus’ service through crucifixion for sinful men anchors us in new life. In the proclamation of His Son, God makes His justice clear, defining “the distinction between the righteous and the wicked” (Mal. 3:18). He truly is “the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38), who governs His Church with all authority in heaven and on earth. He has come into His kingdom by His cross, and He graciously remembers us in paradise. Therefore, do not weep for Him, but with repentant faith “weep for yourselves and for your children” (Luke 23:28). Then the mountains and hills of Jerusalem, His holy Church, shall cover you with His righteousness and peace. For He “is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Col. 1:15). “All things were created through him and for him” (Col. 1:16), and “all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell” bodily in Him, reconciling all things to Himself “by the blood of his cross” (Col. 1:19–20).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 20, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 23:27-43
Sermon Theme: “Ruling From the Cross”

Old Testament: Malachi 3:13–18
Epistle: Colossians 1:13–20
Holy Gospel: Luke 23:27–43

Jesus Christ Reigns, Enduring the Cross — Its Scorn and Shame

The Lord Jesus reigns in love among those who are baptized in His name. “They shall be mine,” He says, “and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him” (Mal. 3:17). Jesus’ service through crucifixion for sinful men anchors us in new life. In the proclamation of His Son, God makes His justice clear, defining “the distinction between the righteous and the wicked” (Mal. 3:18). He truly is “the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38), who governs His Church with all authority in heaven and on earth. He has come into His kingdom by His cross, and He graciously remembers us in paradise. Therefore, do not weep for Him, 

2016-11-20 - LastSunday - Sermon: "Ruling From the Cross" - Luke 23:27-43

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Twenty-Sixth Sunday After Pentecost, November 13, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 21:5-28 
Sermon Theme: “Signs” 
 
Old Testament: Malachi 4:1–6 
Epistle: 2 Thessalonians 3:6–13 
Holy Gospel: Luke 21:5–28 
 
God’s Plan of Redemption Trumps Earthly Destruction and Violence 
 
There are signs of the Lord’s coming all around: the cross that marks His Church, the violence and death of the sinful world, and the shaking of the natural order. “There will be great distress upon the earth” (Luke 21:23), but the faithful know that “the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31). Therefore, “straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Be awake and alert, and heed the words of Christ, which “will not pass away” (Luke 21:33). For you “the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings” (Mal. 4:2). He sends His preachers of repentance in the spirit and power of Elijah “before the great and awesome day of the LORD comes” (Mal. 4:5), in order to “direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ” (2 Thess. 3:5). Although you are often faithless, “the Lord is faithful,” and by the preaching of His Word “he will establish you and guard you against the evil one” (2 Thess. 3:3). Therefore, “do not grow weary in doing good” (2 Thess. 3:13). In the midst of calamity, believe upon the Lord, Jesus Christ.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Twenty-Sixth Sunday After Pentecost, November 13, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 21:5-28
Sermon Theme: “Signs”

Old Testament: Malachi 4:1–6
Epistle: 2 Thessalonians 3:6–13
Holy Gospel: Luke 21:5–28

God’s Plan of Redemption Trumps Earthly Destruction and Violence

There are signs of the Lord’s coming all around: the cross that marks His Church, the violence and death of the sinful world, and the shaking of the natural order. “There will be great distress upon the earth” (Luke 21:23), but the faithful know that “the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31). Therefore, “straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Be awake and alert, and heed the words of Christ, which “will not pass away” (Luke 21:33). For you “the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings” (Mal. 4:2). He sends His preachers of repentance in the spirit and power 

2016-11-13 - Pentecost 26 - Sermon: "Signs "- Luke 21:5-28

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-Second Sunday After Pentecost, October 16, 2016, by Pastor John-Paul Meyer. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 18:1-8 
Sermon Theme: “Jesus’ Prayer with Promise” 
Preaching Today: Pastor John-Paul Meyer 
 
Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–30 
Epistle: 2 Timothy 3:14—4:5 
Holy Gospel: Luke 18:1–8 
 
Faith Clings to the Word and Promises of God and Perseveres in Prayer 
 
“Left alone,” Jacob wrestled through the night with the Lord, “until the breaking of the day” (Gen. 32:24). Though “Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him” (Gen. 32:25), he would not let go until the Lord blessed him. At times, we, too, strive with God; He strives with us and blesses us by grace. So Jesus teaches us “always to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Jesus speaks of “a judge who neither feared God nor respected man” and of a widow “who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary’” (Luke 18:2–3). Because of her persistence, the judge agreed to “give her justice” (Luke 18:5). Our Lord dispenses justice generously and swiftly, giving “justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night” (Luke 18:7). He does so according to the Gospel. Therefore, His ministers are to persevere faithfully in their vocation, in what they “have learned and have firmly believed” (2 Tim. 3:14). On the basis of “the sacred writings” (2 Tim. 3:15), they are to “preach the word” at all times and not lose heart (2 Tim. 4:2).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-Second Sunday After Pentecost, October 16, 2016, by Pastor John-Paul Meyer.

Sermon Text: Luke 18:1-8
Sermon Theme: “Jesus’ Prayer with Promise”
Preaching Today: Pastor John-Paul Meyer

Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–30
Epistle: 2 Timothy 3:14—4:5
Holy Gospel: Luke 18:1–8

Faith Clings to the Word and Promises of God and Perseveres in Prayer

“Left alone,” Jacob wrestled through the night with the Lord, “until the breaking of the day” (Gen. 32:24). Though “Jacob’s hip was put out of joint as he wrestled with him” (Gen. 32:25), he would not let go until the Lord blessed him. At times, we, too, strive with God; He strives with us and blesses us by grace. So Jesus teaches us “always to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Jesus speaks of “a judge who neither feared God nor respected man” and of a widow “who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary’” (Luke 18:2–3). Because of 

2016-10-16 - Pentecost 22 - Sermon: "Jesus' Prayer with Promise" - Luke 18:1-8

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 11, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-10 
Sermon Theme: “Crazy Grace” 
Installation of New Members 
 
Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–24 
Epistle: 1 Timothy 1:(5–11) 12–17 
Holy Gospel: Luke 15:1–10 
 
Jesus Christ Is the Great Shepherd of His Sheep 
 
“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). As He had mercy on Paul, in order to “display his perfect patience” (1 Tim. 1:16), so also does He seek out His sheep “from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness” (Ezek. 34:12). To deliver His flock, He “will seek the lost, … bring back the strayed, … bind up the injured, and … strengthen the weak” (Ezek. 34:16), and “they shall no longer be a prey” (Ezek. 34:22). He sets over them one great Good Shepherd, the Son of David, who “shall feed them and be their shepherd” (Ezek. 34:23). For Christ Jesus is the one man who, “having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them,” would “leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it” (Luke 15:4). When He finds the lost one and brings it home rejoicing, “the angels of God” and all the company of heaven rejoice with Him, with great joy (Luke 15:7, 10).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 11, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-10
Sermon Theme: “Crazy Grace”
Installation of New Members

Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–24
Epistle: 1 Timothy 1:(5–11) 12–17
Holy Gospel: Luke 15:1–10

Jesus Christ Is the Great Shepherd of His Sheep

“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). As He had mercy on Paul, in order to “display his perfect patience” (1 Tim. 1:16), so also does He seek out His sheep “from all places where they have been scattered on a day of clouds and thick darkness” (Ezek. 34:12). To deliver His flock, He “will seek the lost, … bring back the strayed, … bind up the injured, and … strengthen the weak” (Ezek. 34:16), and “they shall no longer be a prey” (Ezek. 34:22). He sets over them one great Good Shepherd, the Son of David, who “shall

2016-09-11 - Pentecost 17 - Sermon: "Crazy Grace" - Luke 15:1-10

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 21, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 13:22-30 
Sermon Theme: “The Narrow Door” 
 
Old Testament: Isaiah 66:18–23 
Epistle: Hebrews 12:4–24 
Holy Gospel: Luke 13:22–30 
 
The Cross of Christ Is the Way into the Kingdom of God 
 
With the cross of Christ, the time has come “to gather all nations and tongues” (Is. 66:18). The sign of the cross is set forth in the preaching of the Gospel, the declaration of the Lord’s glory “among the nations” (Is. 66:19). Many “will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God” (Luke 13:29), but only by the narrow way of the cross. Those who refuse to follow Christ crucified will ultimately find only “weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Luke 13:28), whereas Christ’s disciples, called from all the nations, will eat and drink with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of God. They will come into “the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem” (Heb. 12:22).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 21, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 13:22-30
Sermon Theme: “The Narrow Door”

Old Testament: Isaiah 66:18–23
Epistle: Hebrews 12:4–24
Holy Gospel: Luke 13:22–30

The Cross of Christ Is the Way into the Kingdom of God

With the cross of Christ, the time has come “to gather all nations and tongues” (Is. 66:18). The sign of the cross is set forth in the preaching of the Gospel, the declaration of the Lord’s glory “among the nations” (Is. 66:19). Many “will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God” (Luke 13:29), but only by the narrow way of the cross. Those who refuse to follow Christ crucified will ultimately find only “weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Luke 13:28), whereas Christ’s disciples, called from all the nations, will eat and drink with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of God. They 

2016-08-21 - Pentecost 14 - Sermon: "The Narrow Door" - Luke 13:22-30

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 14, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 12:49-53 
Sermon Theme: “Pressed In with Jesus” 
 
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:16–29 
Epistle: Hebrews 11:17–31 
Holy Gospel: Luke 12:49–53 
 
Christ’s Suffering and Death Bring Division 
 
The Lord Jesus causes fear and trembling and division because His Word is “like fire … and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces” (Jer. 23:29). His Law puts us all to death, whereas only His Gospel can bring us to life. He has fulfilled that Word for us by His cross and in His resurrection from the dead. He undergoes such a distressing Baptism, accomplished by His death, in order to open the way for us through our Holy Baptism into His cross and resurrection. So, then, if we are able “to interpret the appearance of earth and sky” (Luke 12:56), let us mark this sign of His cross — recognizing that this world is subject to death, but knowing that Christ Jesus also has conquered death and obtained life everlasting for us. Let us fix our eyes on “Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” and “run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Heb. 12:1–2).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 14, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 12:49-53
Sermon Theme: “Pressed In with Jesus”

Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:16–29
Epistle: Hebrews 11:17–31
Holy Gospel: Luke 12:49–53 

Christ’s Suffering and Death Bring Division

The Lord Jesus causes fear and trembling and division because His Word is “like fire … and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces” (Jer. 23:29). His Law puts us all to death, whereas only His Gospel can bring us to life. He has fulfilled that Word for us by His cross and in His resurrection from the dead. He undergoes such a distressing Baptism, accomplished by His death, in order to open the way for us through our Holy Baptism into His cross and resurrection. So, then, if we are able “to interpret the appearance of earth and sky” (Luke 12:56), let us mark this sign of His cross — recognizing that this world is subject to death

2016-08-14 - Pentecost 13 - Sermon: "Pressed In With Jesus" - Luke 12:49-53

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Ninth Sunday After Pentecost, July 17, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 10:38-42 
Sermon Theme: “The Good Portion” 
 
Old Testament: Genesis 18:1–10a (10b–14) 
Epistle: Colossians 1:21–29 
Holy Gospel: Luke 10:38–42 
 
The Word of Christ Is the One Thing Needed 
 
“The LORD appeared to [Abraham] by the oaks of Mamre” (Gen. 18:1) and received his hospitality. But Abraham received the gracious promise of a son. Though Abraham and Sarah were very old, nothing is “too hard for the LORD” (Gen. 18:14). His Word appointed the time and fulfilled the promise. In the same way, the Lord Jesus “entered a village” and received Martha’s hospitality (Luke 10:38). “Martha was distracted with much serving” because she was “anxious and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:40–41), but her sister Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching” (Luke 10:39). The service of love is no sin, but “one thing is necessary” for both faith and love — the Word of Christ (Luke 10:42). Thus, the ministers of Christ are sent “to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints” (Col. 1:25–26).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Ninth Sunday After Pentecost, July 17, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 10:38-42
Sermon Theme: “The Good Portion”

Old Testament: Genesis 18:1–10a (10b–14)
Epistle: Colossians 1:21–29
Holy Gospel: Luke 10:38–42

The Word of Christ Is the One Thing Needed

“The LORD appeared to [Abraham] by the oaks of Mamre” (Gen. 18:1) and received his hospitality. But Abraham received the gracious promise of a son. Though Abraham and Sarah were very old, nothing is “too hard for the LORD” (Gen. 18:14). His Word appointed the time and fulfilled the promise. In the same way, the Lord Jesus “entered a village” and received Martha’s hospitality (Luke 10:38). “Martha was distracted with much serving” because she was “anxious and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:40–41), but her sister Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching” (Luke 10:39). The service of love is no sin, but “one thing is 

2016-07-17 - Pentecost 9 - Sermon: "The Good Portion" - Luke 10:38-42

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Eighth Sunday After Pentecost, July 10, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-37 
Sermon Theme: “The Good Neighbor In You” 
 
Old Testament: Leviticus (18:1–5) 19:9–18 
Epistle: Colossians 1:1–14 
Holy Gospel: Luke 10:25–37 
 
Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan 
 
The Law commands that “you shall love the Lord your God” with all your heart, soul, mind and strength (Luke 10:27), and that you shall “love your neighbor as yourself” (Lev. 19:18). Love fulfills the Law because love does no harm to the neighbor. Christ Jesus is the Good Samaritan, who with divine compassion saves you from all evil. He takes your sin and death upon Himself and bears these in His body to the cross. He binds up your wounds with the healing balm of His Gospel, and He brings you into His Church, where He takes care of you at His own expense (Luke 10:34–35). By such mercy, He proves “to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers” (Luke 10:36). Therefore, “you go, and do likewise” (Luke 10:37). By “your faith in Christ Jesus” and “because of the hope laid up for you in heaven” (Col. 1:4–5), you have the same love for others as the Lord Jesus has for you.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Eighth Sunday After Pentecost, July 10, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-37
Sermon Theme: “The Good Neighbor In You”

Old Testament: Leviticus (18:1–5) 19:9–18
Epistle: Colossians 1:1–14
Holy Gospel: Luke 10:25–37

Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan

The Law commands that “you shall love the Lord your God” with all your heart, soul, mind and strength (Luke 10:27), and that you shall “love your neighbor as yourself” (Lev. 19:18). Love fulfills the Law because love does no harm to the neighbor. Christ Jesus is the Good Samaritan, who with divine compassion saves you from all evil. He takes your sin and death upon Himself and bears these in His body to the cross. He binds up your wounds with the healing balm of His Gospel, and He brings you into His Church, where He takes care of you at His own expense (Luke 10:34–35). By such mercy, He proves “to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the r

2016-07-10 - Pentecost 8 - Sermon: "The Neighbor In You" - Luke 10:25-37

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventh Sunday of Easter, May 8, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: John 17:20-26 
Sermon Theme: “That They May Be One” 
 
 
First Lesson: Acts 1:12–26 
Epistle: Revelation 22:1–6, 12–20 
Holy Gospel: John 17:20–26 
 
Jesus Is with Us in His Holy Christian Church 
 
On the night when He was betrayed, Jesus interceded for His Church — for His apostles and all who believe in Him through their word — that all of His disciples “may become perfectly one” in the Father and the Son (John 17:21–23). For Jesus became flesh and dwells among us in order to reveal the Father and His name, to share with us the glory of His righteousness, and to bring us to the Father in Himself. As the Father loved the Son from “before the foundation of the world” (John 17:24), so He loves the whole world (John 17:23, 26). Through the apostolic witness to the Baptism, cross and resurrection of Jesus (Acts 1:21–22), the Lord gathers His disciples throughout the world “with one accord” as one Body in Christ (Acts 1:14). And so with one voice and by one Spirit, His Bride prays, “Come” (Rev. 22:17). And He comes to us. He gives us “the water of life without price” to wash our robes and quench our thirst (Rev. 22:17); He feeds us from “the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit” (Rev. 22:2).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventh Sunday of Easter, May 8, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: John 17:20-26
Sermon Theme: “That They May Be One”


First Lesson: Acts 1:12–26
Epistle: Revelation 22:1–6, 12–20
Holy Gospel: John 17:20–26

Jesus Is with Us in His Holy Christian Church

On the night when He was betrayed, Jesus interceded for His Church — for His apostles and all who believe in Him through their word — that all of His disciples “may become perfectly one” in the Father and the Son (John 17:21–23). For Jesus became flesh and dwells among us in order to reveal the Father and His name, to share with us the glory of His righteousness, and to bring us to the Father in Himself. As the Father loved the Son from “before the foundation of the world” (John 17:24), so He loves the whole world (John 17:23, 26). Through the apostolic witness to the Baptism, cross and resurrection of Jesus (Acts 1:21–22), the Lord gathers Hi

2016-05-08 - Easter 7 - Sermon: "That They May Be One" - John 17:20-26

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Ascension Of Our Lord, May 5, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 24:44-53 
Sermon Theme: “The Ascension of Our Lord” 
 
 
First Lesson: Acts 1:1–11 
Epistle: Ephesians 1:15–23 
Holy Gospel: Luke 24:44–53 
 
Christ Ascended Is with You Always 
 
In His resurrection, the Lord Jesus presented Himself alive to the apostles, “appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God” (Acts 1:3). Then He ascended to the right hand of the Father, not orphaning His Church, but filling all things in heaven and on earth, and giving gifts to His disciples. So today, He continues to preach “repentance and forgiveness of sins” (Luke 24:47) through “the apostles whom he had chosen” (Acts 1:2), even “to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Jesus comes among us today by His Word and Spirit, whom He pours out upon “the church, which is his body” (Eph. 1:22–23). In His Church, He blesses us with forgiveness, lifts us up in His hands and seats us with Himself “in the heavenly places” (Eph. 1:20).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Ascension Of Our Lord, May 5, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 24:44-53
Sermon Theme: “The Ascension of Our Lord”


First Lesson: Acts 1:1–11
Epistle: Ephesians 1:15–23
Holy Gospel: Luke 24:44–53

Christ Ascended Is with You Always

In His resurrection, the Lord Jesus presented Himself alive to the apostles, “appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God” (Acts 1:3). Then He ascended to the right hand of the Father, not orphaning His Church, but filling all things in heaven and on earth, and giving gifts to His disciples. So today, He continues to preach “repentance and forgiveness of sins” (Luke 24:47) through “the apostles whom he had chosen” (Acts 1:2), even “to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Jesus comes among us today by His Word and Spirit, whom He pours out upon “the church, which is his body” (Eph. 1:22–23). In His Church, He blesses us with forgivene

2016-05-05 - Ascension - Sermon: "The Ascension of Our Lord" - Luke 24:44-53

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, April 24, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: John 16:12-22 
Sermon Theme: “A Little While” 
 
First Lesson: Acts 11:1–18 
Epistle: Revelation 21:1–7 
Holy Gospel: John 16:12–22 
 
Jesus Turns Sorrow into Joy 
 
On earth “you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy” (John 16:20). Already the Spirit grants you peace and joy through the forgiveness of your sins. For by the cross of Christ, “God has granted repentance that leads to life” (Acts 11:18). His Gospel is “a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household” (Acts 11:14). He gives freely “from the spring of the water of life” (Rev. 21:6), “and death shall be no more” (Rev. 21:4). He dwells with His people, adorning His Church as a bride for her husband, “making all things new” (Rev. 21:5). Therefore, as the Son of Man is glorified by His cross, “and God is glorified in him” (John 13:31), so He is glorified in us by our “love for one another” (John 13:35), which His Spirit works in us by His grace.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, April 24, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: John 16:12-22
Sermon Theme: “A Little While”

First Lesson: Acts 11:1–18
Epistle: Revelation 21:1–7
Holy Gospel: John 16:12–22

Jesus Turns Sorrow into Joy

On earth “you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy” (John 16:20). Already the Spirit grants you peace and joy through the forgiveness of your sins. For by the cross of Christ, “God has granted repentance that leads to life” (Acts 11:18). His Gospel is “a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household” (Acts 11:14). He gives freely “from the spring of the water of life” (Rev. 21:6), “and death shall be no more” (Rev. 21:4). He dwells with His people, adorning His Church as a bride for her husband, “making all things new” (Rev. 21:5). Therefore, as the Son of Man is glorified by His cross, “and God is glorified in him” (John 13:31), so He is g

2016-04-24 - Easter 5 - Sermon: "A Little While" - John 16:12-22

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California at the Funeral Service for Samuel E. Hull, April 23, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: John 10:11-16, 27-30 
Sermon Theme: “Shepherded Home” 
 
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:6-11 
Epistle: Revelation 7:9-17 
Holy Gospel: John 10:11-16, 27-30 
 
Samuel Eugene Hull was born on May 30, 1943, was baptized in 1943, and Confirmed in Christ in 1962. Sam married Barbara nee Fintel on November 28, 1963, and died in Christ on April 13, 2016.

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California at the Funeral Service for Samuel E. Hull, April 23, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: John 10:11-16, 27-30
Sermon Theme: “Shepherded Home”

Old Testament: Isaiah 40:6-11
Epistle: Revelation 7:9-17
Holy Gospel: John 10:11-16, 27-30

Samuel Eugene Hull was born on May 30, 1943, was baptized in 1943, and Confirmed in Christ in 1962.  Sam married Barbara nee Fintel on November 28, 1963, and died in Christ on April 13, 2016.

2016-04-23 - Funeral for Samuel E. Hull - Sermon: "Shepherded Home"  - John 10:11-16, 27-30

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Third Sunday in Lent, February 28, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 13:1-9 
Sermon Theme: “God’s Mercy is God’s Glory” 
 
Old Testament: Ezekiel 33:7–20 
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 10:1–13 
Holy Gospel: Luke 13:1–9 
 
Jesus Calls You to Repentance 
 
“Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3, 5). By this warning, the Lord would turn us away from wickedness and bring us to life in Himself. For He is patient with us, that we not be cut down in our sin but live and bear fruit in Him. As He lives, the Lord has “no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live” (Ezek. 33:11). So the Scriptures have been “written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come” (1 Cor. 10:11), that we should not desire evil but trust in Christ. He alone is faithful, the Rock who feeds us with His “spiritual food” and pours out His “spiritual drink” (1 Cor. 10:3–4).

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on The Third Sunday in Lent, February 28, 2016, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.

Sermon Text: Luke 13:1-9
Sermon Theme: “God’s Mercy is God’s Glory”

Old Testament: Ezekiel 33:7–20
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 10:1–13
Holy Gospel: Luke 13:1–9

Jesus Calls You to Repentance

“Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3, 5). By this warning, the Lord would turn us away from wickedness and bring us to life in Himself. For He is patient with us, that we not be cut down in our sin but live and bear fruit in Him. As He lives, the Lord has “no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live” (Ezek. 33:11). So the Scriptures have been “written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come” (1 Cor. 10:11), that we should not desire evil but trust in Christ. He alone is faithful, the Rock who feeds us with His “spiritual food” and pours out His “spiritual drink” (1 C

2016-02-28 - Sermon: "God's Mercy is God's Glory" - Luke 13:1-9

“Christ Our Priest: A Study of the Book of Hebrews Chapter 13:1-12,” Lesson 23 on February 14, 2016, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn. 
 
 CHRIST OUR PRIEST 
A Study of the Book of Hebrews 
 
Thanks to Rev. Jonathon Bakker for Much of the Work in this Study! 
 
SACRIFICES PLEASING TO GOD 
HEBREWS 13:1-12 
 
Hebrews 13:1. Let brotherly love continue. 2. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. 
 
Hebrews 13:4. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 
 
Hebrews 13:5. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, 
 
“The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me? (Psalm 27:1) (Psalm 118:6) 
 
 Hebrews 13:7. Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. 8. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 
 
Hebrews 13:9. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them. 10. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. 11. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. 12. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood.

“Christ Our Priest: A Study of the Book of Hebrews Chapter 13:1-12,” Lesson 23 on February 14, 2016, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn.
 
 CHRIST OUR PRIEST
A Study of the Book of Hebrews

Thanks to Rev. Jonathon Bakker for Much of the Work in this Study!

SACRIFICES PLEASING TO GOD
HEBREWS 13:1-12 

Hebrews 13:1. Let brotherly love continue. 2. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 3. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. 

Hebrews 13:4. Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. 

Hebrews 13:5. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say,

“The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me? (Psalm 27:1) (Psalm 118:6)

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