Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope – part 48
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Revelation 3:7–13
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope
Therefore, even if the bishop of Rome had the primacy by divine right, obedience is not due him because he defends godless services and doctrine that conflicts with the Gospel. Indeed, it is necessary to resist him as Antichrist. The errors of the pope are unmistakable and not trifling.
Pulling It Together
Though no one but Christ is head of the church, there remain bishops, pastors, priests, Council presidents, and others in positions of leadership. Be sure they keep the Word of God. Hold them accountable to God’s teaching, not the doctrines of men. If they will not observe the Word, holding fast instead to their own traditions and services, perhaps they are Christian in name only. Nonetheless, you must endure. That does not mean you put up with bad doctrine; it means that you keep the Word even if no one else will.
Prayer: Lord, give me strength to endure. Amen
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Author
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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