Concerning the Church – part 5
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Philippians 2:12-16a
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
The Church is also defined by the article in the Creed that teaches us to believe that there is “one holy catholic Church.” The wicked indeed are not a holy Church. “The communion of saints” that follows, seems to be added in order to explain what “church” signifies, namely, the congregation of saints who share the fellowship of the same gospel or doctrine, and of the same Holy Spirit who renews, sanctifies, and governs their hearts.
Pulling It Together: We believe in the Church. This is the congregation of those who believe in Christ. They are spread throughout the ages — past, present, and future. As such, the Church is also here now. It is that fellowship of souls whom God’s Spirit is regenerating and sanctifying. There are wolves among the flock of Christ (Matthew 7:15, 10:16) but they are not in the flock. They are not sheep but are only masquerading among the sheep. They are not the people of God’s pasture (Psalm 95:7) because they do not believe. The true Church holds fast to the word of life, the gospel of Jesus Christ, and as such, is being led by the Holy Spirit through this present wilderness of sin and death, always back to faith and life in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: Bring me always, Holy Spirit, back to faith in Christ. 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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