Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Romans 8:37–39
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Romans 8:37–39
From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
Concerning Confession and Satisfaction
Additionally, repentance and grace are obscured because eternal death is not atoned for by this compensation of works, which is futile, and does not taste death in this present life. When death attacks us, something else must contend for us. Just so, as the wrath of God is overcome by faith in Christ, so death is overcome by faith in Christ. This is what Paul says, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Cor 15:57). He does not say, who gives us the victory if we contend against death through our satisfactions.
Pulling It Together: We are threatened on every side. Ten things are listed in Romans 8:37–39, over which we have no power or control. Indeed, the tenth thing Paul lists is anything not mentioned in the first nine. These things constantly threaten to undo us. Who or what can contend with such enemies to our eternal existence? We cannot conquer any of these powerful foes. Nothing we try changes death or life; they happen to us no matter what we do.
But there is one who has successfully fought back for us—and won the victory. Through him, we also have victory. Faith in Christ accomplishes what a Herculean, religious effort can never achieve. Through him, we do more than conquer; we are gifted with the victory that he won. Though threats assail us, they will never separate us from the great love of God in Christ Jesus.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your great love that sent a Savior. Amen.
The Ten Commandments book is a ten-week unit, which includes one session on each of the Commandments. The Scripture focus in the Ten Commandment series is on Moses and the Exodus Cycle, with Bible Study lessons taken primarily from the Pentateuch.
• Student Workbook • Leader's Guide
The Sola Confirmation Series, written by the Rev. Steven E. King, is work-book style Confirmation curriculum. It is designed to serve as a simple and practical resource for teaching the biblical Word of God according to the traditional pattern of Martin Luther’s Small Catechism. Each book in the series can be used as the basis for a “come as you are” small group Bible study, as a student book for home school or independent study programs, or as a classroom tool and homework resource as part of an existing confirmation program.
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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