The Smalcald Articles – part 84
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Galatians 2:16
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
There was no mention here of Christ or faith. Instead, people hoped to overcome and blot out sins before God by their own works. It was with this intention we became priests and monks: that we might organize ourselves against sin.
Pulling It Together: The object of our faith is Christ, not our works of the law. We are justified by faith in him, not by striving to be better. That would be putting faith in our own deeds instead of in the goodness and justice of Christ. This is why Luther stated his famous words: “Christ alone.” We are saved by faith in Christ alone. Should we strive to be holy for lifetimes, yet without faith in Christ, we could not be saved. Moreover, people may have faith in Christ, yet for their lifetimes know they are sinners, and nevertheless, be saved into eternal life. Such is the weight of God’s grace to people who have faith in his Christ.
Prayer: Help me live my life, O God, by faith in your Son. 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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