Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Acts 14:21–22
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From the Word: 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, and to Iconium, and to Antioch, 22 confirming the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that through many troubles we must enter into the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:21–22)
From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The Second Commandment
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
This type of training spreads its roots in the heart so that the young fear God more than sticks and paddles. I say this simply, for the sake of the young, so that it may penetrate their minds, because since we are preaching to children, we must also babble with them. So, we have prevented the abuse and have taught the right use of the divine name, which consists not only in words, but also in practice and life. In this way, we may know that God is well pleased with the right use of his name, and will richly reward it, just as he will terribly punish its abuse.
Pulling It Together: Find a way! Speak their language while proclaiming the word of truth. Teach in different ways. Get through to them, especially as pertains to these first commandments. For how one should revere God will permeate the rest of life. Setting early a tone of fear, love, and trust will serve young disciples in their old age (Prov 22:6). This is the way to strengthen and confirm the hearts and minds of our young: spend much time with them, not only drilling, but living the catechism.
Prayer: Open the minds of our young, Lord, that they may believe and understand. Amen.
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The Faith of St. Paul: Transformative Gift of Divine Power by Roy A. Harrisville III provides a fresh perspective on the letters of St. Paul by presenting the apostle's concept of faith as a transformative gift of divine power.
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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