The Smalcald Articles – part 50
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Matthew 23:9
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
The papacy is of no use in the Church because it is not a Christian office. Accordingly, it is necessary for the Church to move on and continue to exist without a pope.
Pulling It Together: In The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien describes 20 rings of power that were forged to rule the inhabitants of Middle Earth. One ring and its wearer was to rule over the other 19 and their wearers. Eventually, the rest of the peoples of Middle Earth would be bound in evil and darkness by this one, supreme power. Oh, the trouble that always happens when one person, having been given imaginary and unchallenged power, rules over the rest. The trouble becomes demonic when that person is allowed divine power such as establishing articles of faith, which may only come from Scripture. The office is not found in Scripture, neither in title nor responsibility.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, keep me steadfast in your Word. 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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