The Smalcald Articles – part 65
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Matthew 16:17
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
This hereditary sin is so deep a corruption of nature that it cannot be understand with reason. It must be believed from the revelation of the Scriptures (Psalm 51:5; Romans 6:12ff; Exodus 33:3; Genesis 3:7ff).
Pulling It Together: The kingdom of God cannot be stormed by reason. Human reason is strong but it cannot bring itself to believe in the unseen, the unprovable. Moreover, human nature is blind to itself. A man may eventually yield to his own wrongdoing because of its sheer repetition, but then say, It wasn’t so bad, or Who did it harm? Or perhaps he does not even view his offenses as sin. He is merely trying to relieve his guilt when he proclaims, Sin is just a construct of religion. Reason brings us all to this terrible place. It locks the door on this self-centered prison where guilt festers and the lies are multiplied. Only God is able to break us free.
By God’s grace alone, we are enabled to come out of our cells and into the light. His grace provides us with the faith necessary to believe the unbelievable. And what is more unbelievable than that sinners like us may be forgiven, made righteous, and be loved by the Father of lights (James 1:17)? Such faith is the foundation of the Father’s family.
Prayer: Give me faith, Lord, by your Word. 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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