Don’t Indulge Me

Don’t Indulge Me

Comments on Galatians with an ear to Luther’s commentary

Scripture Text: Galatians 2:21 and 2 Corinthians 4:1-4

Series: Comments on Galatians

Today's Scripture Jigsaw

The indulgences which Luther fought were certificates issued under the authority of the Pope (initially the indulgence of Pope Leo X that was used to build the basilica of St. Peter in Rome). It was perceived that these indulgences offered a release from purgatory. This perception was advertised by Johann Tetzel, an indulgence hawker in Luther’s locale, with the jingle, “As soon as a coin in the coffer rings, a soul from purgatory springs.”

Both teachings, indulgence and purgatory, are false — and for the same reason. They come with a price but not the price of the cross. An indulgence cost money instead of the shed blood of Christ. An indulgence for the relief of temporal punishment is counterfeit, for only the cross offers true relief — and it is not partial but instead, complete. As for purgatory, the same true doctrine applies. One is not made ready for heaven in a place called Purgatory. One is purified for glory only through the cross of Christ. Jesus paid the price for your righteousness and offers his forgiveness and righteousness to you freely. Believing that you must add anything to his grace is tampering with God's Word and is rejects the cross of Christ.  

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