A number of Old Testament prophets were persecuted and mistreated simply because their audience didn't want to hear what they had to say (think Jonah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel among others). But their message was not their own - it came from God himself. And when Christ Jesus came into this world to do his Father's will and fulfill the words of the prophets, he also spoke the truth. God's Word Is Truth. 1) It is often unpleasant and unwelcome (especially the message of the Law); and 2) It always speaks of justice and mercy (in the Gospel).

Mission Statement of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church: It is the will of God: That we will all be his witnesses to spread the Good News that Jesus our Savior brought us peace with God through the forgiveness of sins for all people. That we proclaim the Law and Gospel as revealed in Holy Scriptures to lead all people to repent of sin and to believe in Jesus, who died for our sins and rose to give us eternal life. That we be strengthened in faith and Christian living by worship, communion, continuing instruction, prayer, and fellowship to be better stewards and witnesses.