Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Scripture Text: Hebrews 10:19–25

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Hebrews 10:19–25

From the Confessions: Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope 

Such superiority is impossible. For it is not possible for one bishop to be the overseer of all the churches of the world, or for churches situated in distant lands to seek ordination from one. For it is obvious that the kingdom of Christ is scattered throughout the whole world, and that today there are many churches in the East which do not seek ordination or confirmation through the Roman bishop. Since such superiority is impossible, and the churches in the greater part of the world have not acknowledged it, it is sufficiently apparent that it was not instituted.

Pulling It Together: There is the Church of Christ: those who make the good confession, who stir up love and good works in one another, and who meet together in Christ’s name until he returns. They have Jesus as their great priest; otherwise, they could not confidently draw near to God in faith. Without Christ at the heart and head of the Church, it is merely a human institution, looking for spiritual solutions through social, moral, and religious works. There is no sure hope in that place. The only hope that is both reasonable and sustainable is the hope of faith: faith in Christ, not faith in self or in someone else, but in Christ alone. There is the holy, catholic Church.

Prayer: Thank you for the full assurance you have given, God, through faith in Christ my Lord. Amen.

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