Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Scripture Text: John 20:19-23

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John 20:19-23

From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession

Concerning Love and the Fulfilling of the Law 

Now in this assembly, the authors of the Confutation have condemned with clear words the confession that faith is a part of repentance, by which we obtain forgiveness of sins, overcome the terrors of sin, and the conscience knows peace. Who does not see that this article—that by faith we obtain the forgiveness of sins—is most true, certain, and necessary for all Christians? Who in future generations, hearing that such a doctrine has been condemned, would guess that the authors of the condemnation had any knowledge of Christ?

Pulling It Together

The disciples were in hiding, very likely imagining that they were next, that the authorities would come for them too. They had crucified the Lord; what would they do to his followers? There would have been nothing the disciples could have done to alleviate their anxiety. The best they could do was be together, hiding behind locked doors. This is when Jesus comes to those of faith. He gathers with us in the midst of our fears, and speaks words of promise. “Peace be with you.” Faith believes his word and is revived.

Prayer: Breathe on me, O Breath of God, that I may do your will. Amen.

A Latin phrase meaning “Scripture Alone,” Sola Scriptura is one of the traditional Lutheran slogans used since the time of the Reformation. It expresses our confession that Scripture is “the only rule and norm according to which all doctrines and teachers alike must be appraised and judged.” Using the familiar phrase as its title, Sola Scriptura is an advanced-level Bible Study in a two-part series, of six chapters each, on the functional authority of Scripture. For those who would like to cover the topic in detail, there is enough material to cover one chapter in two sessions, making each part a 12-week study.

Part 1 Leader's Guide  •  Part 2 Participant Book  •  Part 2 Leader's Guide


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