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

Bible Class on Exodus 32:11-29, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, March 2, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
- The Golden Calf

Bible Class on Exodus 32:11-29, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, March 2, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

- The Golden Calf

2014-03-02 - Bible Class - Exodus 32:11-29

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Transfiguration of Our Lord, March 2, 2014 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 17:1-9 
Sermon Theme: "View From the Top" 
 
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 Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Transfiguration of Our Lord, March 2, 2014 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Matthew 17:1-9
Sermon Theme: "View From the Top"

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 

2014-03-02 - Transfiguration Sunday - Sermon: "View From the Top" - Matthew 17:1-9

Bible Class on Exodus 30:16 thru Exodus 31:18, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, February 9, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
- The Bronze Basin 
- The Anointing Oil and Incense 
- Oholiab and Bezalel 
- The Sabbath 
 
Next Sunday, February 16th: The Golden Calf

Bible Class on Exodus 30:16 thru Exodus 31:18, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, February 9, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

- The Bronze Basin
- The Anointing Oil and Incense
- Oholiab and Bezalel
- The Sabbath

Next Sunday, February 16th: The Golden Calf

2014-02-09 - Bible Class on Exodus 30:16 thru Exodus 31:18

Bible Class on Exodus 29:26 thru Exodus 30:15, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, February 2, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
- Consecration of the Priests 
- The Altar of Incense 
- The Census Tax

Bible Class on Exodus 29:26 thru Exodus 30:15, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, February 2, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

- Consecration of the Priests 
- The Altar of Incense  
- The Census Tax

2014-02-02 - Bible Study on Exodus 29:26 thru 30:15

Bible Class on Exodus 28:31 thru Exodus 29:18, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, January 26, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
- Garments of the High Priests 
- How we dress or behave 
- Consecration of the Priests

Bible Class on Exodus 28:31 thru Exodus 29:18, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, January 26, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

- Garments of the High Priests 
- How we dress or behave
- Consecration of the Priests

2014-01-26 - Bible Class on Exodus 28:31 to Exodus 29:18

Bible Class on Exodus 28:15 thru Exodus 28:30, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, January 19, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Garments of the High Priests.

Bible Class on Exodus 28:15 thru Exodus 28:30, held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California, January 19, 2014, led by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Garments of the High Priests.

2014-01-19 - Bible Study - Exodus 28:15 thru Exodus 28:30 - Garments of the High Priests

Bible Class at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 4701 Grove Street, Rocklin, California 95677, on January 12, 2014. 
 
Exodus 27:1-8 -- The Bronze Altar 
Exodus 27:9-19 -- The Court of the Tabernacle 
Exodus 27:20-21 -- Oil for the Lamp 
Exodus 28:1-42 -- The Garments of the High Priests -- Vestments for Aaron the High Priest and Other Priests

Bible Class at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 4701 Grove Street, Rocklin, California 95677, on January 12, 2014.

Exodus 27:1-8 -- The Bronze Altar
Exodus 27:9-19 -- The Court of the Tabernacle
Exodus 27:20-21 -- Oil for the Lamp
Exodus 28:1-42 -- The Garments of the High Priests -- Vestments for Aaron the High Priest and Other Priests

2014-01-12 - Bible Class - Exocus 27:1 thru Exodus 28:14

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Deuteronomy 8:1-10 
Sermon Theme: "Thanksgiving" 
 
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 8:1--10 
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1--4 
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:11--19 
 
We Praise God for Sustaining Life in and through His Word 
 
The nation resounds with thanksgiving for the earth's bountiful harvest, crops of wheat and grains, all beneath the canopy of God's almighty care. But "man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD" (Deut. 8:3). The Church is the vessel through which the Word of God penetrates the world with its Law and Gospel. It is this divine Word that proclaims Jesus as the sole source of life, health and wholeness. It is Jesus who heals lepers with His Word, "Go and show yourselves to the priests" (Luke 17:14). Of the 10 cleansed, only one expresses thanksgiving to Jesus. But true gratitude proceeds from a heart sustained by faith. Jesus bids this one Samaritan to "rise and go your way; your faith has made you well." So also, we are sent from the Divine Service, bolstered in our faith by baptismal and Eucharist blessing to be thankful in our circumstances of plenty and hunger, abundance and need (Phil. 4:6--20).

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Deuteronomy 8:1-10
Sermon Theme: "Thanksgiving"

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 8:1--10
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1--4
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:11--19

We Praise God for Sustaining Life in and through His Word

The nation resounds with thanksgiving for the earth's bountiful harvest, crops of wheat and grains, all beneath the canopy of God's almighty care. But "man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD" (Deut. 8:3). The Church is the vessel through which the Word of God penetrates the world with its Law and Gospel. It is this divine Word that proclaims Jesus as the sole source of life, health and wholeness. It is Jesus who heals lepers with His Word, "Go and show yourselves to the priests" (Luke 17:14). Of the 10 cleansed, only one expresses thanksgiving to Jesus. But true gratitude proceeds from a heart 

2013-11-28 - Thanksgiving - Sermon "Thanksgiving" - Deuteronomy 8:1-10

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 24, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 23:27-43 
Sermon Theme: "Paradise" 
 
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 Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 24, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Luke 23:27-43
Sermon Theme: "Paradise"

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

2013-11-24 - Last Sunday of Church Year - Sermon: "Paradise" - Luke 23:27-43

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-sixth Sunday After Pentecost, November 17, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 21:5-28 
Sermon Theme: "Legacy" 
 
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 Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-sixth Sunday After Pentecost, November 17, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Luke 21:5-28
Sermon Theme: "Legacy"

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 

2013-11-17 - Pentecost 26 - Sermon: "Legacy" - Luke 21:5-28

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-fifth Sunday After Pentecost, November 10, 2013, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 20:27-40 
Sermon Theme: "Resurrection" 
 
Old Testament: Exodus 3:1--15 
Epistle: 2 Thessalonians 2:1--8, 13--17 
Holy Gospel: Luke 20:27--40 
 
The Triune God Curbs Evil and Overcomes Death with Resurrection 
 
Christians live as "sons of God, being sons of the resurrection" (Luke 20:36), for the Lord our God "is not God of the dead, but of the living" (Luke 20:38). "Those who deny that there is a resurrection" (Luke 20:27) neither know the Scriptures nor the power of God, but the baptized faithful know "that the dead are raised" (Luke 20:37). For the Lord, who was, and is and is to come, knows Israel's sufferings and has "come down to deliver them" (Ex. 3:8). Moses reveals the name of Yahweh to God's chosen people, by which He is "remembered throughout all generations" (Ex. 3:15). In contrast to that sacred remembrance of His name, St. Paul warns against the antichrist, who "takes his seat in the temple of God" (2 Thess. 2:4). That lawless man preaches and practices the activity of Satan. Christians, however, are comforted by the coming of the Lord Jesus, who slays the antichrist and refutes his false doctrine "with the breath of his mouth" (2 Thess. 2:8). By His preaching, "stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught" (2 Thess. 2:15). Hear, receive and believe God's promise of love, comfort and good hope.

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-fifth Sunday After Pentecost, November 10, 2013, by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Luke 20:27-40
Sermon Theme: "Resurrection"

Old Testament: Exodus 3:1--15
Epistle: 2 Thessalonians 2:1--8, 13--17
Holy Gospel: Luke 20:27--40

The Triune God Curbs Evil and Overcomes Death with Resurrection 

Christians live as "sons of God, being sons of the resurrection" (Luke 20:36), for the Lord our God "is not God of the dead, but of the living" (Luke 20:38). "Those who deny that there is a resurrection" (Luke 20:27) neither know the Scriptures nor the power of God, but the baptized faithful know "that the dead are raised" (Luke 20:37). For the Lord, who was, and is and is to come, knows Israel's sufferings and has "come down to deliver them" (Ex. 3:8). Moses reveals the name of Yahweh to God's chosen people, by which He is "remembered throughout all generations" (Ex. 3:15). In contrast to that sacred remembrance of His

2013-11-10 - Trinity 25 - Sermon: "Resurrection" - Luke 20:27-40

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on All Saints Sunday, November 3, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Matthew 5:1-12, 1 John 3:2 
Sermon Theme: "Like Him" 
 
First Reading: Revelation 7:9--17 
Epistle: 1 John 3:1--3 
Holy Gospel: Matthew 5:1--12 
 
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ 
 
"A great multitude ... from all tribes and peoples and languages" cry out, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne" (Rev. 7:9--10). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we, too, "shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall "serve him day and night in his temple" (Rev. 7:15). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure and the persecuted are all blessed, and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1--12).

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on All Saints Sunday, November 3, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Matthew 5:1-12, 1 John 3:2
Sermon Theme: "Like Him"

First Reading: Revelation 7:9--17
Epistle: 1 John 3:1--3
Holy Gospel: Matthew 5:1--12

Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ

"A great multitude ... from all tribes and peoples and languages" cry out, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne" (Rev. 7:9--10). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we, too, "shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall "serve him day and night in his temple" (Rev. 7:15). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ prop

2013-11-03 - All Saints Sunday - Sermon: "Like Him" - Matthew 5:1-12; 1 John 3:2

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
First Reading: Revelation 14:6--7 
Epistle: Romans 3:19--28 
Holy Gospel: John 8:31--36 
 
The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace 
 
"Wisdom is justified by her deeds" (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus, the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His kingdom and "remain in the house forever" (John 8:35). For He is "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel "to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people" (Rev. 14:6), "the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law" (Rom. 3:21), "that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, "whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith" (Rom. 3:25), "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32).

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

First Reading: Revelation 14:6--7
Epistle: Romans 3:19--28
Holy Gospel: John 8:31--36

The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace

"Wisdom is justified by her deeds" (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus, the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His kingdom and "remain in the house forever" (John 8:35). For He is "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel "to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people" (Rev. 14:6), "the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law

2013-10-27 - Reformation Sunday - Sermon: "Freedom" - John 8:31-36

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-first Sunday After Pentecost, October 13, 2013 by Guest Pastor John Herrmann. 
 
Old Testament: Ruth 1:1--19a 
Epistle: 2 Timothy 2:1--13 
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:11--19 
 
Faith Returns Thanks to God and Worships Him in the Person of Christ Jesus 
 
Jesus comes in mercy and, by His Word, heals you in body and soul. "Go and show yourselves to the priests," for you are cleansed (Luke 17:14), and you are granted access to the Lord's Temple. It is "at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks" (Luke 17:16) that you worship God, for Christ Jesus is your great High Priest; His body is the true Temple. In Him, you "find rest, each of you in the house of her husband" (Ruth 1:9), for the Lord has "visited his people and given them food" (Ruth 1:6). The person of Jesus Christ lodges Himself in holy food — bread and wine for believers to eat and drink. You lodge where Jesus lodges; His Father is your God, His people are your people. Death cannot part you from Him because His death and resurrection are eternally yours through Holy Baptism. "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead" (2 Tim. 2:8). As surely as death could not hold Him, so surely "the word of God is not bound" (2 Tim. 2:9). His Gospel is entrusted "to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Tim. 2:2), so that you "may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 2:10). Such is the confession of faith for all the saints, who believe, teach and confess the one Lord and Savior — Jesus Christ.

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twenty-first Sunday After Pentecost, October 13, 2013 by Guest Pastor John Herrmann.

Old Testament: Ruth 1:1--19a
Epistle: 2 Timothy 2:1--13
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:11--19

Faith Returns Thanks to God and Worships Him in the Person of Christ Jesus

Jesus comes in mercy and, by His Word, heals you in body and soul. "Go and show yourselves to the priests," for you are cleansed (Luke 17:14), and you are granted access to the Lord's Temple. It is "at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks" (Luke 17:16) that you worship God, for Christ Jesus is your great High Priest; His body is the true Temple. In Him, you "find rest, each of you in the house of her husband" (Ruth 1:9), for the Lord has "visited his people and given them food" (Ruth 1:6). The person of Jesus Christ lodges Himself in holy food — bread and wine for believers to eat and drink. You lodge where Jesus lodges; His Father is your God, His people are your people. Death can

2013-10-13 - Pentecost21 - Sermon; "All Is Well in Jesus" - Luke 17:11-19

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost, October 6, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Old Testament: Habakkuk 1:1--4; 2:1--4 
Epistle: 2 Timothy 1:1--14 
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:1--10 
 
We Walk by Faith, and Not by Sight, in the Peace of Christ's Forgiveness 
 
We are surrounded by "destruction and violence" (Hab. 1:3) because the Law "is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth" (Hab. 1:4). In fact, the Law cannot rescue us from our enemies; it is our fiercest enemy of all. Therefore, not by sight, experience or feeling, nor by works, but "the righteous shall live by his faith" (Hab. 2:4). "Temptations to sin are sure to come" (Luke 17:1), but as often as we sin, the Lord rebukes us, turns us to repentance and forgives us. We pray that He would thus "increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). And indeed, He does! Though we are His "unworthy servants" (Luke 17:10), He prepares His Supper for us, dresses us properly, and gives us His body and blood to eat and drink. He appoints pastors for us, "by the will of God according to the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 1:1). For the Gospel brings "life and immortality to light" (2 Tim. 1:10). This we believe. Therefore, "follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard," by which He guards you "in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 1:13). 
.

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost, October 6, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Old Testament: Habakkuk 1:1--4; 2:1--4
Epistle: 2 Timothy 1:1--14
Holy Gospel: Luke 17:1--10

We Walk by Faith, and Not by Sight, in the Peace of Christ's Forgiveness

We are surrounded by "destruction and violence" (Hab. 1:3) because the Law "is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth" (Hab. 1:4). In fact, the Law cannot rescue us from our enemies; it is our fiercest enemy of all. Therefore, not by sight, experience or feeling, nor by works, but "the righteous shall live by his faith" (Hab. 2:4). "Temptations to sin are sure to come" (Luke 17:1), but as often as we sin, the Lord rebukes us, turns us to repentance and forgives us. We pray that He would thus "increase our faith" (Luke 17:5). And indeed, He does! Though we are His "unworthy servants" (Luke 17:10), He prepares His Supper for us, dresses us properly, and gives us His body and bloo

2013-10-06 - Pentecost20 - Sermon: "Increase Our Faith" - Luke 17:1-10

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 22, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 16:1-13 
Sermon Theme: "Nothing Left to Lose" 
 
Old Testament: Amos 8:4--7 
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1--15 
Holy Gospel: Luke 16:1--15 
 
The Lord Is Rich in His Grace and Mercy 
 
Because God our Savior "desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4), He urges "that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people" (1 Tim. 2:1). Christians should so pray "without anger or quarreling," but "adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control" (1 Tim. 2:8, 9). For the Lord does not forget "the poor of the land" (Amos 8:4). He remembers them according to the foolishness of the cross. "For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God" (Luke 16:15). Though we try to justify ourselves "before men," God knows our sinful hearts and calls us to repentance (Luke 16:15). Though we are "not strong enough to dig" and are "ashamed to beg" (Luke 16:3), He justifies us by His grace and welcomes us into His "eternal dwellings" (Luke 16:9). More shrewd than even "the sons of this world" (Luke 16:8), He requires His stewards of the Gospel to bestow forgiveness freely.

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 22, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn
 
Sermon Text: Luke 16:1-13
Sermon Theme: "Nothing Left to Lose"

Old Testament: Amos 8:4--7
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1--15
Holy Gospel: Luke 16:1--15

The Lord Is Rich in His Grace and Mercy 

Because God our Savior "desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4), He urges "that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people" (1 Tim. 2:1). Christians should so pray "without anger or quarreling," but "adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control" (1 Tim. 2:8, 9). For the Lord does not forget "the poor of the land" (Amos 8:4). He remembers them according to the foolishness of the cross. "For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God" (Luke 16:15). Though we try to justify ourselves "before men," God knows our sinful hearts and

2013-09-22 - Pentecost18 - Sermon: "Nothing Left to Lose" - Luke 16:1-13

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 15, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-10 
Sermon Theme: "The Full Flock" 
 
 
Ezekiel 34:11--24 
1 Timothy 1:(5--11) 12--17 
Luke 15:1--10 
 
Jesus Christ Is the Good 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 the 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 Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 15, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-10
Sermon Theme: "The Full Flock"


Ezekiel 34:11--24
1 Timothy 1:(5--11) 12--17
Luke 15:1--10

Jesus Christ Is the Good 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 the 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

2013-09-15 - Pentecost17 - Sermon: "The Full Flock" - Luke 15:1-10

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 1, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 14:1-14 
Sermon Theme: "Owned By God" 
 
Old Testament: Proverbs 25:2--10 
Epistle: Hebrews 13:1--17 
Holy Gospel: Luke 14:1--14 
 
We Are Humbled and Exalted by the Cross of Christ 
 
"Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled," Jesus proclaims, but "he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:11). For your hope is in the name of the Lord, who humbled Himself unto death on the cross and was exalted in His resurrection. So are you humbled by His cross, and "at the resurrection of the just," He will say to you, "Friend, move up higher" (Luke 14:10; 13--14). By His grace, the King will honor you "in the presence of a noble," where your eyes will gaze upon the Prince, His dearly beloved Son (Prov. 25:7). As He has dealt so graciously with you, "do not neglect to do good and to share what you have" (Heb. 13:16) and "do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers" (Heb. 13:2). Humble yourself and exalt your neighbor.

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 1, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

Sermon Text: Luke 14:1-14
Sermon Theme: "Owned By God"

Old Testament: Proverbs 25:2--10
Epistle: Hebrews 13:1--17
Holy Gospel: Luke 14:1--14

We Are Humbled and Exalted by the Cross of Christ

"Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled," Jesus proclaims, but "he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:11). For your hope is in the name of the Lord, who humbled Himself unto death on the cross and was exalted in His resurrection. So are you humbled by His cross, and "at the resurrection of the just," He will say to you, "Friend, move up higher" (Luke 14:10; 13--14). By His grace, the King will honor you "in the presence of a noble," where your eyes will gaze upon the Prince, His dearly beloved Son (Prov. 25:7). As He has dealt so graciously with you, "do not neglect to do good and to share what you have" (Heb. 13:16) and "do not neglec

2013-09-01 - Pentecost15 - Sermon: "Owned by God" - Luke 14:1-14

Preached at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 25, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 13:22-30 
Sermon Theme: "The Narrow Door" 
 
Isaiah 66:18--23 
Hebrews 12:4--24 (25--29) 
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 Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 25, 2013 by Pastor Todd Peperkorn

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

Isaiah 66:18--23
Hebrews 12:4--24 (25--29)
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 

2013-08-25 - Pentecost14   Sermon: "The Narrow Door" - Luke 13:22-30

Preached at Holy Cross Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rocklin, California on the Nineth Sunday After Pentecost, Sunday, July 21, 2013 by Pastor Emeritus John-Paul Meyer. 
 
Sermon Text: Luke 10:38-42 
Sermon Theme: "The Lord Supplies Our Needs" 
 
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 Nineth Sunday After Pentecost, Sunday, July 21, 2013 by Pastor Emeritus John-Paul Meyer.

Sermon Text: Luke 10:38-42
Sermon Theme:  "The Lord Supplies Our Needs"

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

Holy Cross Lutheran Church Videos