The Smalcald Articles – part 131
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Titus 1:13–16
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
Part III, Article XV. Concerning Human Traditions.
The papist declaration that human traditions achieve the forgiveness of sins or earn salvation is unchristian and condemned. Christ says, “In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15:9). Again, Titus 1:14: “men…who reject the truth.” So, when they proclaim that it is a mortal sin if one breaks these ordinances, this is also false.
Pulling It Together: If a ceremony or regulation denies the work of Christ, God’s grace, or his plan of redemption, then it is untrue, or to use a stronger term, heresy. If it is claimed that any religious tradition attains to the remission of sins — in whole or in part — it is heresy. For only Christ has accomplished this for us; it is given freely to all who hold to him in faith. If anyone insists that you not keeping their rules makes you a sinner, smile, and answer that you are indeed a sinner, a sinner whom Christ died for and saved to everlasting life, despite their rules and traditions.
Prayer: Help me to know you through your works, Lord Jesus, not mine. Amen
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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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