The Small Catechism – part 162
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Revelation 2:4–5
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Small Catechism, The Third Petition
Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
What does this mean?
The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it will also be done among us.
How is this done?
God’s will is done when he hinders and destroys every evil design and purpose of the devil, the world, and our sinful nature that would keep us from hallowing his name and prevent the coming of his kingdom. And God’s will is done when he strengthens us and keeps us steadfast in his Word and in faith to the end of our earthly lives. This is his good and gracious will.
Pulling It Together: The fear, love, and trust of God both bids us do his will and gives us the power to do so. And what is God’s greatest command than that we love him above all others, and our neighbors as ourselves (Luke 10:27)? Do we still love him as we did when his own love for us was first made known? Does our love of the crucified motivate us to love those whom he loves? It must! Therefore, we should consider our current attitudes, whether there is some affection lacking in us. If so, repentance is our only course of action while we are “waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).” Thus, the people of God are strengthened and kept in God's good will, eager to do the deeds of love that glorify their King. This is his purpose for us (Titus 2:14); but if we will not do his will, how will we bear his light to the world? Our defiance would effectively remove the stand that bears the Light. “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28 NIV).
Prayer: Strengthen me, O Lord, so that I may do your will. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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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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