The Large Catechism – part 103
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Luke 6:5
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The Third Commandment
Since so much depends upon God’s Word that no holy day can be sanctified without it, we must know that God insists upon a strict observance of this commandment, and will punish all who despise his Word and are not willing to hear and learn it, especially at the time appointed for the purpose.
Pulling It Together: Laws are not established as mere prohibition, but as protection and benefit for the people. This is the case with divine law as well as human. Though the command is exacting, the Third Commandment is for the benefit of God’s people. God has appointed a day of rest on which we may hear his word, his promises, his forgiveness, and all his benefits. This day has been prearranged as the time when all of God’s people come together to have their faith in him increased. We have every other day for work, and hopefully, for individual time in prayer. But let us come together on the Lord’s Day, as commanded, going “from faith to faith” (Romans 1:17) as the communion of saints. Those who despise the commandment will not escape punishment, nor will they find faith an easy thing.
Prayer: O Lord, help me love your Word and not despise your commandments. 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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