Concerning Confession and Satisfaction – part 33

Concerning Confession and Satisfaction – part 33

Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Scripture Text: Jeremiah 2:22

Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Today’s Scripture Jigsaw

 Click for audio of today's devotion.

From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession

We do not care about refuting these absurdities of the adversaries in more words. Scripture is obviously speaking of necessary works, of the entire newness of life, and not of observances of works that are not required, of which the adversaries speak. And yet, by these figments they defend monastic orders, the sale of Masses, and incessant observances to make satisfaction for punishment — if not for the guilt.

Pulling It Together: I used to be a printer, working with thick, oily inks day after day. My skin became discolored by cleaning those inks from presses. I tried everything to get my hands clean — not only commercial products, but many that I invented also. Nothing worked. It seemed that my hands were permanently stained. But in fact, my hands were clean, except for the stains.

Scrub and scrub; scour as much as you like. Invent cleansing agents, potions, and rituals. You will still be unclean. The stain of your guilt will remain before the Lord. Nothing removes it — no amount of good works, no love of God, or devotion to religion. Though works, love, and devotion are required of us, they do not cleanse us of our sin. Only Christ can do that for us. He alone has removed the stain of guilt for all who believe.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for taking away my sin and my guilt. Amen

Log in to add a comment

Click Here For Content Archives