Concerning Repentance – part 24
Scripture Text: Proverbs 32:5
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Proverbs 32:5
From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
Concerning Repentance
In order to deliver pious consciences from these labyrinths of the scholastics, we have ascribed these two parts to repentance: contrition and faith. If any one desires to add fruits worthy of repentance, or a change of the entire life and character for the better as a third part, we will not resist.
Pulling It Together
As good works follow true repentance or conversion, the Lutherans did not quibble on this point. Their position was that contrition and faith cannot be removed from repentance, leaving only the good works. This removes Christ from repentance, since penitence would only involve the devotion of the penitent—or worse, their money. Repentance begins with a heart that is moved toward God’s mercy and then has faith that he forgives for Christ’s sake. As has been said here many times, good works will surely follow. Does this make good works necessary for repentance to occur? We confess that in true repentance, good works will necessarily follow.
Prayer: I acknowledge to you my many sins, Lord, and rejoice in your salvation. Amen.
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Views of Baptism is written for a range of readers including the parent or sponsor about to baptize a child, the adult who wants to understand baptism more fully, and the professional teacher or preacher who needs the truth about baptism stated simply but backed by careful research. This books explores three views of baptism: the individual-centered view, the means-of-grace view, and the Roman Catholic view. It includes a description of how Christian baptism came to us in stages from its Jewish roots. A question and answer section addresses specific matters often raised when people contemplate baptism.
Author
Rev. Mark E. Ryman serves as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Previously, Pastor Ryman has served other congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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