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The Smalcald Articles – part 71
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Galatians 2:20–21
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
These and many similar fictions have resulted from misunderstanding and ignorance concerning both sin and Christ, our Savior. These things are truly heathen doctrines, which we cannot endure. If this teaching is correct, then Christ has died in vain, since there would be no defect or sin in the human race for which Christ should have died. Or, he would have died only for the body, but not for the soul, inasmuch as the soul is sound, and only the body is subject to death.
Pulling It Together: It is not in our nature to love God or do good. That old nature must die, so that a new nature may be formed in us — a righteous nature given to us, one that may love God. Working at it will not make us God fearing or good people. We must be given a new life and being, a righteousness through faith. If it were otherwise, Scripture is untrue, and Christ has died for no reason whatsoever.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the faith to believe. 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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