Concerning Repentance – part 24
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Proverbs 32:5
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
In order to deliver pious consciences from these labyrinths of the scholastics, we have ascribed these two parts to repentance: contrition and faith. If any one desires to add fruits worthy of repentance, or a change of the entire life and character for the better as a third part, we will not resist.
Pulling It Together
As good works follow true repentance or conversion, the Lutherans did not quibble on this point. Their position was that contrition and faith cannot be removed from repentance, leaving only the good works. This removes Christ from repentance, since penitence would only involve the devotion of the penitent — or worse, their money. Repentance begins with a heart that is moved toward God’s mercy and then has faith that he forgives for Christ’s sake. As has been said here many times, good works will surely follow. Does this make good works necessary for repentance to occur? We confess that in true repentance, good works will necessarily follow.
Prayer: I acknowledge to you my many sins, Lord, and rejoice in your salvation. 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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