Simul

 

Simul

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 3:6 and 1 John 1:8–10

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

Through faith in his Christ, God makes us new creatures. Now, the remnants of our old natures remain, so long as we are in these bodies. We must struggle through this life with the poison of sin; for we have indeed been poisoned. Look to David to see how this righteous man, “a man after God’s own heart,” (Acts 13:22) was so easily turned by the venom’s work in him. He saw bathing Bathsheba, lusted, and gave in to the lust. The toxin had done its work. 

Though there were consequences, God forgave David. We see in him and others, examples of that Lutheran saying: Simul Justus et peccator — at the same time just and sinner. Now, David was certainly not just in himself. He was a sinner, indeed, a murderer, who deserved justice. So, how could he possibly be deemed just or righteous? That is God’s doing and his decision.
 
It is precisely the same for us. Our Mediator has become our righteousness. Our deeds are not the final answer; our faith in Christ Jesus is what makes us just before God.

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