Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Ephesians 5:25–27
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Ephesians 5:25–27
From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
Concerning the Invocation of Saints
This form of absolution is sometimes used: “The passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, the merits of the most blessed Virgin Mary and of all the saints, be to thee for the remission of sins.” According to the declaration of this absolution, we are reconciled and accounted righteous, not only by the merits of Christ but also, by the merits of the other saints.
Pulling It Together
No saints are named by Paul (or any other writer in the New Testament) as responsible for the act of cleansing the church. Christ alone has made the church holy—so holy that she is without blemish. Does Christ need someone’s help in this sanctification of his church? Does he need a single saint’s assistance, or has he done this on his own by giving himself for her on the cross? What is written?
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for giving yourself up for me and for all who believe. Amen.
Written in honor of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, The Life of Martin Luther, a nine-session adult study, takes participants through the circumstances and events of the life of Martin Luther as it reflects on the biblical themes underlying the Lutheran Reformation.
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