Concerning Repentance – part 73
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Ezekiel 33:10–13
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Click for audio of today’s devotion.
From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
Tertullian speaks excellently about faith, dwelling upon the oath in the prophet: “As I live, says the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live” (Ezekiel 33:11). In swearing that he does not wish the death of a sinner, God shows that faith is required so that we may believe him and be firmly confident that he forgives us. The authority of the divine promises, by itself, ought to be great in our estimation. Still, this promise has also been confirmed by an oath. Therefore, if any one is not confident that he is forgiven, he denies that God has sworn what is true. A more horrible blasphemy cannot be imagined.
Pulling It Together: Should you try not to sin? Certainly; but your ability or inability has nothing to do with forgiveness. Should you be sorry when you sin, and seek to do better? Absolutely, yet again, this has nothing to do with forgiveness of sin. Your righteousness will not deliver you from your transgressions. How can the Scripture be any more clear? Our sorrow, devotion, love, and good works are not part of the justification equation. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15). Now, you either have faith that he does this, or you believe that he needs your assistance. What is written? Jesus saves! Do you believe?
Prayer: Lord, help me to truly repent by having faith in you. 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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