The Smalcald Articles – part 55

Scripture Text: Colossians 1:17–18

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Colossians 1:17–18

From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles 

So, the Church cannot be better governed and preserved than by us all living under one head, Christ, and by all the bishops being equal in office (though they are unequal in gifts), and diligently joined together in unity of doctrine, faith, Sacraments, prayer, works of love, and so forth. St. Jerome writes that the priests at Alexandria governed the churches together and in common, as the apostles also did, and afterwards all bishops throughout Christendom, until the pope raised his head over them all.

Pulling It Together: It is one thing to have a leader in the Church. It is another thing altogether to have that leader make claims that supersede Scripture, create new doctrines for the Church, and have power over others whom God himself has called to leadership. The easiest way around this problem is to have all bishops ruling together for the common good. More to the point, may their rule be displayed through faith in Christ our Head, by teaching the Scripture instead of dogma, administering the Sacraments rather than decrees, and by prayer and love for all the people.

Prayer: Hold your Church together, Lord, sending pastors to preach the Word and administer the Sacraments under your headship. Amen.

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Learning About Communion teaches the meaning of Holy Communion according to the pattern of Luther's Small Catechism, and is recommended for the Fifth Grade Level. Each week focuses on a specific Bible story which illustrates the theme, with additional references from Scripture andLuther's Small Catechism - Children's Version. Lessons emphasize the sacramental promise of the forgiveness of sins conveyed to us in the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. This booklet was designed to be used as a Sunday School unit, or for classes to prepare students for their First Communion.

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