Concerning the Marriage of Priests – part 6
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Malachi 2:15
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
We cannot approve of this law about celibacy that our opponents defend, because it opposes both divine and natural law, and is at odds with the very canons of the Councils. That it is superstitious and dangerous is obvious, for it produces endless scandals, sins, and corruption of public morals. Our other disputes require some theological discussion, but this matter is so clear that it requires no further discussion. It only requires the judgment of any honest and God-fearing person. Yet, even though the plain truth is promoted by us, the adversaries have devised certain deceits to satirize our arguments.
Pulling It Together: God created us in his own image. Further, he made us male and female so that we would be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:27-28). In this endeavor, God provided man a helpmate, a female helper and companion (Genesis 2:18). This is God’s will and plan for his creation — a good and godly arrangement. Forcing persons into celibacy because of false, unbiblical promises is itself scandalous, and promotes further scandal, as has been seen through the centuries. This is beyond debate.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to see the plain truth of your word. Amen
Share this post
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.
Click Here For Content Archives