Lutheran Men’s Retreat Encouragement

Pastor Kilgo Speaks on Christian Martyrdom and Bold Confession

Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, Kansas gives thanks for the opportunity Pastor Sean Kilgo had to travel to the Chicago area this past weekend to teach at the Men's Retreat hosted by Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville, Illinois. The retreat, held October 16–17, 2026, centered on the theme “Already Dead: Living as a Bold Witness of Christ.” It was an opportunity for Christian men to gather around God's Word, grow in theological understanding, and encourage one another in faithful confession of Jesus Christ.

Learning from the Martyrs of the Christian Church

The history of Christianity is filled with accounts of faithful men and women who confessed Christ even in the face of persecution, suffering, and death. These martyrs did not possess extraordinary strength or courage apart from the Lord. Rather, they trusted in the promises of Jesus Christ, who conquered sin, death, and the devil through His cross and resurrection.

The word martyr comes from the Greek word for witness, reminding us that Christian martyrdom is fundamentally about confessing Christ. Throughout the centuries, the Church has remembered those who suffered for the faith, not to glorify suffering itself, but to give thanks for the Gospel they proclaimed. Their testimony continues to encourage Christians to remain steadfast in God's Word.

Already Dead: Living as a Bold Witness of Christ

The theme of the retreat offers a striking reminder of what Holy Scripture teaches concerning Baptism and the Christian life. St. Paul writes in Romans 6:4 that Christians have been buried with Christ through Baptism into death, so that they might walk in newness of life. Our identity and eternal hope are therefore found not in the security of this passing world, but in Christ crucified and risen.

This truth changes how Christians understand courage, suffering, and faithful witness. We need not seek persecution or imagine ourselves capable of heroic faithfulness through our own efforts. Rather, we are called to confess Christ in our ordinary vocations, trusting the Savior who has already defeated death and given us the promise of everlasting life.

Encouraging Christian Men Through Scripture and Fellowship

Gatherings like the Bethany Lutheran Men's Retreat provide opportunities for theological study, conversation, and mutual encouragement. The Christian life is not intended to be lived in isolation, and faithful fellowship helps strengthen men in their vocations as husbands, fathers, church members, and neighbors. Studying the martyrs reminds us that the same Lord who sustained His Church throughout history continues to sustain His people today.

We are grateful for the invitation extended to Pastor Kilgo and for the opportunity to share these teachings with fellow Lutherans in the Chicago area. Such gatherings demonstrate the blessing of fellowship among congregations committed to historic Christianity and the Lutheran Confessions. They also remind us that the Church's mission extends far beyond any single congregation.

Continuing the Conversation at Redeemer Lutheran Church

Perhaps these reflections on the martyrs and joyful Christian confession will find their way into a Bible study at Redeemer Lutheran Church soon! These subjects are worthy of continued study, particularly as Christians consider how to confess their faith with clarity, humility, and confidence. We encourage members and visitors to watch for future opportunities to explore the history and teachings of the Christian Church.

If you are searching for churches in Lawrence KS, seeking a traditional Lutheran church, or looking for a congregation offering substantive Bible study and historic Christian teaching, we warmly invite you to Redeemer Lutheran Church. Join us in worship, grow in God's Word, and discover the confidence and joy of confessing Jesus Christ, who has overcome death and given His people everlasting life.