The Large Catechism – part 102
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Hosea 3:1–5
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The Third Commandment
Take note, therefore, that the force and the power of this commandment do not lie not in the resting, but in the sanctifying, so that a specific holy exercise belongs to this day. Other works and occupations are not properly called holy exercises, unless the person is first holy. But here something is to be done by which the person is made holy. This is accomplished, as we have heard, by the agency of God’s Word alone. Fixed places, times, people, and the entire external order of worship are appointed and designed so that God’s Word may operate publicly.
Pulling It Together: What do you have to do in order to become holy? Nothing but follow him who makes one holy. We are called to follow him so we may be present for his great blessings. We are not called to be a fickle Gomer, but to renew our love for God each Lord’s Day. That renewal is simply presence; God does all the rest through his Word. Sanctify the Lord’s Day to yourself, and see how he is sanctifying you through the power of his Word. Through worship, God acts upon us, calling us to faith in Christ Jesus. This is the intended effect of the Third Commandment in these latter days.
Prayer: Give me such faith, O Lord, that I may abide with you always. 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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