The Smalcald Articles – part 82
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Mark 2:17
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Smalcald Articles
As a result, people did penance only for actual sins, such as wicked thoughts they yielded to (for wicked feelings, lust, and improper inclinations that they did not consider sins), and for wicked words and wicked deeds, which free will could have easily avoided.
Pulling It Together: This is a superficial, thoroughly human, way of looking at sin — one that leaves the conscience troubled and rarely at peace with God. It demands people be focused on their specific sins, instead of upon the fact that they are sinners even when they are not sinning. The former has people trying to escape punishment; the latter has them turning to the Savior.
Prayer: Give me, Lord, the peace that passes understanding. 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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