The Smalcald Articles – part 2
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Peter 3:14–15
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
Accordingly, I have compiled these articles and presented them to our delegates. They have accepted them, and unanimously received them as our confession. It has been resolved that they be publicly delivered as the Confession of our Faith, if the Pope and his adherents should ever be so bold as to seriously and in good faith, without lying and cheating, to hold a truly free Christian Council.
Pulling It Together: When you are brought before a group you should not have anxiety about what you should testify, since the Spirit will teach you in the moment the words that need to be spoken (Luke 12:11-12). But if you have the time to get prepared, study and write for the benefit of anyone called to make the good confession (Matthew 16:16; 1 Timothy 6:12). This is precisely what Luther did for his contemporaries — and for all who would make the good confession that we are saved through faith in Christ alone. Beyond that confession, there is no hope.
Prayer: Give me peace, Lord, to honor you in my heart and with my mouth. Amen
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Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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