Concerning Ecclesiastical Power – part 8
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 John 2:24–27
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Click for a recording of today's Sola Devotion.
From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
However, since the gospel clearly testifies that traditions should not be imposed upon the church to merit the forgiveness of sins or to be services that God shall approve as righteousness, or to burden consciences by calling it sin if these traditions are excluded, the adversaries will never be able to show that the bishops have the power to institute such services.
Pulling It Together: What is it that you heard from the beginning other than that you are saved by believing on Jesus Christ? That you must or must not do certain things in order to be forgiven and saved came later when people tried to foist their religious brand upon you. Do not be led astray; remain in the Word, and the Holy Spirit will teach you all things necessary for both salvation and the working out of his salvation through keeping the faith and doing those good works for which you were created (Philemon 2:12; Ephesians 2:10). Yet, do not trust in these works, nor in performing human traditions. Trust instead, in the promise given you at your baptism.
Prayer: Keep me in your Word, Lord, and protect me from those who would have me trust in anything other. 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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