Concerning the Mass – part 4
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Acts 20:7
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
The fact that we hold only public or common Mass is no offense to the Church catholic. Even today, Greek churches do not conduct private Masses; there is only the public Mass, and that on the Lord’s Day and festivals. Daily Mass is held in the monasteries, but this too is only public. These are the vestiges of early practices, as the ancient writers before Gregory make no mention of private Masses.
Pulling It Together: The Augsburg Confession, of which this document is a defense against the charges of the Roman Confutation, states that “the Mass is a Sacrament for those gathered.” Therefore, Lutherans in the days of the Reformation celebrated Holy Communion when the people would gather to worship. The point of this is simply that the Lord’s Supper is for the people — all believers, not a select few who might be seeking special favor or who have paid for the privilege. For it is Christ who has paid the price — not any of us.
Prayer: As we assemble to worship, Lord, help us always to gather around you. 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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