109 matching entries
The Three Ecumenical Creeds
The church’s ancient, public confession of the triune God and the person and saving work of Jesus Christ.
The creeds confess the Son who became man for us, was crucified, rose, and will come again.The Apostles’ CreedEcumenical Creeds, Apostles’ Creed
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.”
Ecumenical Creeds, Apostles’ Creed, Kolb-Wengert edition
A baptismal confession of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The Nicene CreedEcumenical Creeds, Nicene Creed
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] We believe in one God, the Father Almighty,18 maker of heaven and earth, of all things, seen and unseen.”
Ecumenical Creeds, Nicene Creed, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses Jesus Christ as true God, true man, and the one Lord who saves.
The Athanasian CreedEcumenical Creeds, Athanasian Creed
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1–2] Whoever wants to be saved must, above all, hold the catholic faith. Whoever does not keep it whole and inviolate will doubtless perish eternally.”
Ecumenical Creeds, Athanasian Creed, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses the Trinity and the incarnation without confusing the persons or natures.
The Augsburg Confession
The foundational public confession presented at Augsburg in 1530, stating what the evangelical churches teach.
Article IV places the beating heart in the center: sinners are justified freely for Christ’s sake through faith.I. GodAC I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the first place, it is with one accord taught and held, following the decree of the Council of Nicea, [2] that there is one divine essence which is named God and truly is God. [3] But there are three persons in the same one essence, equally powerful, equally eternal: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. All three are one divine essence, eternal, undivided, unending, of immeasurable power, wisdom, and goodness, the creator and preserver of all visible and invisible things.”
AC I, Kolb-Wengert edition
The one divine essence and the three persons of the Holy Trinity.
II. Original SinAC II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Furthermore, it is taught among us that since the fall of Adam, all human beings who are born in the natural way are conceived and born in sin. This means that from birth they are full of evil lust and inclination and cannot by nature possess true fear of God and true faith in God. [2] Moreover, this same innate disease and original sin is truly sin and condemns to God’s eternal wrath all who are not in turn born anew through baptism and the Holy Spirit.”
AC II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Humanity’s inherited sin and need for rebirth through Baptism and the Holy Spirit.
III. The Son of GodAC III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Likewise, it is taught that God the Son became a human being, born of the pure Virgin Mary, [2] and that the two natures, the divine and the human, are so inseparably united in one person that there is one Christ. He is true God and true human being who truly [3] “was born, suffered, was crucified, died, and was buried” in order both to be a sacrifice not only for original sin but also for all other sins and to conciliate God’s wrath.”
AC III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ’s incarnation, cross, resurrection, reign, and return.
IV. JustificationAC IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Furthermore, it is taught that we cannot obtain forgiveness of sin and righteousness before God through our merit, work, or satisfactions, but that we receive forgiveness of sin and become righteous before God out of grace for Christ’s sake through faith [2] when we believe that Christ has suffered for us and that for his sake our sin is forgiven and righteousness and eternal life are given to us. [3] For God will regard and reckon this faith as righteousness in his sight, as St. Paul says in Romans 3[:21–26*] and 4[:5*].”
AC IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Forgiveness and righteousness are received freely for Christ’s sake through faith.
V. The MinistryAC V
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] To obtain such faith God instituted the office of preaching, giving the gospel and the sacraments. [2] Through these, as through means, he gives the Holy Spirit who produces faith, where and when he wills, in those who hear the gospel. [3] It teaches that we have a gracious God, not through our merit but through Christ’s merit, when we so believe. [4] Condemned are the Anabaptists and others who teach that we obtain the Holy Spirit without the external word of the gospel through our own preparation, thoughts, and works.”
AC V, Kolb-Wengert edition
God gives the Gospel and Sacraments so that the Holy Spirit creates faith.
VI. The New ObedienceAC VI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] It is also taught that such faith should yield good fruit and good works and that a person must do such good works as God has commanded for God’s sake but not place trust in them as if thereby to earn grace before God. [2] For we receive forgiveness of sin and righteousness through faith in Christ, as Christ himself says [Luke 17:10*]: “When you have done all [things] …, say, ‘We are worthless slaves.’ ” [3] The Fathers also teach the same thing.”
AC VI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Faith bears good fruit, without making works the basis of justification.
VII. The ChurchAC VII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] It is also taught that at all times there must be and remain one holy, Christian church. It is the assembly of all believers among whom the gospel is purely preached and the holy sacraments are administered according to the gospel. [2] For this is enough for the true unity of the Christian church that there the gospel is preached harmoniously according to a pure understanding and the sacraments are administered in conformity with the divine Word.”
AC VII, Kolb-Wengert edition
The church is the assembly where the Gospel is taught purely and the Sacraments rightly administered.
VIII. What the Church IsAC VIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Likewise, although the Christian church is, properly speaking, nothing else than the assembly of all believers and saints, yet because in this life many false Christians, hypocrites, and even public sinners remain among the righteous, [2] the sacraments—even though administered by unrighteous priests—are efficacious all the same. For as Christ himself indicates [Matt. 23:2–3*]: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat.…” [3] Condemned, therefore, are the Donatists and all others who hold a different view.”
AC VIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
The efficacy of Word and Sacraments rests on Christ’s institution, not a minister’s worthiness.
IX. BaptismAC IX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1–2] Concerning baptism it is taught that it is necessary, that grace is offered through it, and that one should also baptize children, who through such baptism are entrusted to God and become pleasing to him. [3] Rejected, therefore, are the Anabaptists who teach that the baptism of children is not right.”
AC IX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Baptism is necessary, offers grace, and is given also to children.
X. The Lord’s SupperAC X
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning the Lord’s Supper it is taught that the true body and blood of Christ are truly present under the form of bread and wine in the Lord’s Supper and are distributed and received there. [2] Rejected, therefore, is also the contrary teaching.”
AC X, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ’s body and blood are truly present and distributed to communicants.
XI. ConfessionAC XI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning confession it is taught that private absolution should be retained and not abolished. However, it is not necessary to enumerate all misdeeds and sins,64 [2] since it is not possible to do so. Psalm 19[:12*]: “But who can detect their errors?””
AC XI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Private absolution is retained without demanding an impossible catalog of every sin.
XII. RepentanceAC XII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning repentance it is taught that those who have sinned after baptism obtain forgiveness of sins whenever they come to repentance [2] and that absolution should not be denied them by the church. [3] Now properly speaking, true repentance is nothing else than [4] to have contrition and sorrow, or terror about sin, [5] and yet at the same time to believe in the gospel and absolution that sin is forgiven and grace is obtained through Christ. Such faith, in turn, comforts the heart and puts it at peace.”
AC XII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Contrition and faith receive the forgiveness Christ gives, followed by the fruits of repentance.
XIII. The Use of the SacramentsAC XIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning the use of sacraments it is taught that the sacraments are instituted not only to be signs by which people may recognize Christians outwardly, but also as signs and testimonies of God’s will toward us in order thereby to awaken and strengthen our faith. [2] That is why they also require faith and are rightly used when received in faith for the strengthening of faith.”
AC XIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Sacraments are signs and testimonies of God’s will that awaken and confirm faith.
XIV. Ecclesiastical OrderAC XIV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“Concerning church government it is taught that no one should publicly teach, preach, or administer the sacraments without a proper [public] call.”
AC XIV, Kolb-Wengert edition
No one should teach publicly or administer the Sacraments without a regular call.
XV. Ecclesiastical RitesAC XV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning church regulations made by human beings, it is taught to keep those that may be kept without sin and that serve to maintain peace and good order in the church, such as specific celebrations, festivals, etc. [2] However, people are also instructed not to burden consciences with them as if such things were necessary for salvation. [3] Moreover, it is taught that all rules and traditions made by human beings for the purpose of appeasing God and of earning grace are contrary to the gospel and the teaching concerning faith in Christ.”
AC XV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Useful rites may be observed without treating human traditions as necessary for salvation.
XVI. Civic AffairsAC XVI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning public order and secular government it is taught that all political authority, orderly government, laws, and good order in the world are created and instituted by God [2] and that Christians may without sin exercise political authority; be princes and judges; pass sentences and administer justice according to imperial and other existing laws; punish evildoers with the sword; wage just wars; serve as soldiers; buy and sell; take required oaths; possess property; be married; etc.”
AC XVI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christians may serve in civil offices and lawful vocations under God’s left-hand rule.
XVII. Christ’s Return for JudgmentAC XVII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] It is also taught that our Lord Jesus Christ will return on the Last Day to judge, to raise all the dead, [2] to give eternal life and eternal joy to those who believe and are elect, [3] but to condemn the ungodly and the devils to hell and eternal punishment. [4] Rejected, therefore, are the Anabaptists who teach that the devils and condemned human beings will not suffer eternal torture and torment.”
AC XVII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ will return, raise the dead, and give eternal life to believers.
XVIII. Free WillAC XVIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning free will it is taught that a human being has some measure of free will, so as to live an externally honorable life and to choose among the things reason comprehends. [2] However, without the grace, help, and operation of the Holy Spirit a human being cannot become pleasing to God, fear or believe in God with the whole heart, or expel innate evil lusts from the heart. [3] Instead, this happens through the Holy Spirit, who is given through the Word of God. For Paul says (1 Cor.”
AC XVIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Human beings have civil freedom but cannot produce spiritual righteousness without the Holy Spirit.
XIX. The Cause of SinAC XIX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“Concerning the cause of sin it is taught among us that although almighty God has created and preserves all of nature, nevertheless the perverted will causes sin in all those who are evil and despise God. This, then, is the will of the devil and of all the ungodly. As soon as God withdrew his hand, it turned from God to malice, as Christ says (John 8[:44*]): “When [the devil] lies, he speaks according to his own nature.”97”
AC XIX, Kolb-Wengert edition
God is not the cause of sin; the will of the devil and fallen humanity turns from God.
XX. Faith and Good WorksAC XX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1–2] Our people are falsely accused of prohibiting good works. But their writings concerning the Decalogue and other writings demonstrate that they have given good and useful account and admonition concerning proper Christian walks of life and works, [3] about which little had been taught before our time. Instead, for the most part childish, unnecessary works—such as rosaries, the cult of the saints, joining religious orders, pilgrimages, appointed fasts, holy days, brotherhoods, and the like—were emphasized in all sermons.”
AC XX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Good works are taught clearly, while confidence before God rests in Christ alone.
XXI. The Cult of SaintsAC XXI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning the cult of the saints our people teach that the saints are to be remembered so that we may strengthen our faith when we see how they experienced grace and how they were helped by faith. Moreover, it is taught that each person, according to his or her calling, should take the saints’ good works as an example. For instance, His Imperial Majesty, in a salutary and righteous fashion, may follow the example of David in waging war against the Turk. For both hold a royal office that demands defense and protection of their subjects.”
AC XXI, Kolb-Wengert edition
The saints may be remembered as examples, but Christ alone is mediator and propitiator.
XXII. Both Kinds in the SacramentAC XXII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Among us both kinds of the sacrament are given to the laity for the following reason. There is a clear order and command of Christ in Matthew 26[:27*]: “Drink from it, all of you.” [2] Concerning the cup Christ here commands with clear words that they all should drink from it. [3] So that no one can contest and interpret these words as if they only applied to priests, Paul indicates in 1 Corinthians 11[:21*] that the whole assembly of the Corinthian church used both kinds.”
AC XXII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ’s testament gives both bread and wine to the communicants.
XXIII. The Marriage of PriestsAC XXIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] From everyone, both of high and low degree, a mighty, loud complaint has been heard throughout the world about the flagrant immorality and dissolute life of priests who were not able to remain chaste; their vices reached the height of abomination. [3] In order to avoid so much terrible offense, adultery, and other immorality, some priests among us have entered the married state.”
AC XXIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Marriage is God’s institution and may not be forbidden by human command.
XXIV. The MassAC XXIV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] [9] Our people have been unjustly accused of having abolished the Mass. But it is obvious, without boasting, that the Mass is celebrated among us with greater devotion and earnestness than among our opponents. [7] The people are instructed more regularly and with the greatest diligence concerning the holy sacrament, to what purpose it was instituted, and how it is to be used, namely, as a comfort to terrified consciences. In this way, the people are drawn to Communion and to the Mass.”
AC XXIV, Kolb-Wengert edition
The Mass is retained as the public administration of Christ’s testament, not a human work earning grace.
XXV. ConfessionAC XXV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Confession has not been abolished by the preachers on our side. For the custom has been retained among us of not administering the sacrament to those who have not previously been examined and absolved. [2] At the same time, the people are diligently instructed how comforting the word of absolution is and how highly and dearly absolution is to be esteemed. [3] For it is not the voice or word of the person speaking it, but it is the Word of God, who forgives sin. For it is spoken in God’s stead and by God’s command.”
AC XXV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Absolution is treasured because the voice of forgiveness is Christ’s gift to troubled consciences.
XXVI. The Distinction of FoodsAC XXVI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In former times it was taught, preached, and written that distinction among foods and similar traditions instituted by human beings serve to earn grace and make satisfaction for sin. [2] For this reason, new fasts, new ceremonies, new monastic orders, and the like were invented daily. They were fervently and strictly promoted, as if such things were a necessary service of God whereby people earned grace if they observed them or committed a great sin if they did not. [3] Many harmful errors in the church have resulted from this.”
AC XXVI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Human observances cannot merit grace or bind consciences as divine commands.
XXVII. Monastic VowsAC XXVII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In speaking of monastic vows, it is necessary, first of all, to consider how they were viewed earlier, what kind of life there was in the monasteries, and how much happened in them daily that was contrary not only to God’s Word but also to papal canons. [2] For at the time of St. Augustine monastic vocations were voluntary. Later, when proper discipline and teaching became corrupted, monastic vows were contrived. With them, as in a prison of their own devising, people wanted to restore discipline.”
AC XXVII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Vows must not obscure faith, vocation, Christian freedom, or God’s commands.
XXVIII. Ecclesiastical PowerAC XXVIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Many and various things have been written in former times concerning the power of bishops. Some have improperly mixed the power of bishops with the secular sword, [2] and such careless mixture has caused many extensive wars, uprisings, and rebellions. For the bishops, under the guise of power given to them by Christ, have not only introduced new forms of worship and burdened consciences with reserved cases206 and with forcible use of the ban, but they also took it upon themselves to set up and depose emperors and kings according to their pleasure.”
AC XXVIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Bishops exercise the ministry of Word and Sacraments, distinct from civil government.
The Apology of the Augsburg Confession
Melanchthon’s expanded defense of the Augsburg Confession, especially its teaching on sin, justification, repentance, and the church.
The Apology repeatedly directs terrified consciences away from merit and toward God’s promise in Christ.I. GodAp I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Our opponents approve the first article of our Confession. In it we explain that we believe and teach that there is one divine essence, undivided, etc., and that there are nevertheless three distinct and coeternal persons of the same divine essence, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. [2] We have always taught and defended this article, maintaining that its testimonies in the Holy Scriptures are solid, firm, and cannot be overthrown.”
Ap I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Defends the church’s catholic confession of the Holy Trinity.
II. Original SinAp II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The opponents approve the second article concerning “Original Sin,” but do so in such a way that they nevertheless find fault with the definition of original sin that we had related in passing. Here, immediately at the very outset, His Imperial Majesty will discover that those who wrote the Confutation lack not only judgment, but honesty. For whereas we simply wished to review those things that original sin includes, they severely distort a statement—by fabricating vicious interpretations of it—that in itself had nothing wrong with it.”
Ap II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains original sin as the loss of original righteousness and active opposition to God.
III. ChristAp III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The opponents approve the third article, in which we confess that there are two natures in Christ, namely, that the human nature was assumed by the Word into the unity of his person; and that this same Christ suffered and died in order to reconcile the Father to us and rose from the dead in order to rule over, justify, and sanctify believers, etc., according to the Apostles’ Creed and Nicene Creed.”
Ap III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Affirms the confession of Christ’s person and work.
IV. JustificationAp IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the fourth, fifth, and sixth articles, as well as later in the twentieth, they condemn us for teaching that people receive the forgiveness of sins not on account of their own merits but freely on account of Christ, by faith in Him. They condemn us both for denying that people receive the forgiveness of sins on account of their own merits and for affirming that people receive the forgiveness of sins by faith and are justified by faith in Christ.”
Ap IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
The major defense of justification by faith for Christ’s sake, apart from the merit of works.
V. Love and Fulfilling the LawAp IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the fourth, fifth, and sixth articles, as well as later in the twentieth, they condemn us for teaching that people receive the forgiveness of sins not on account of their own merits but freely on account of Christ, by faith in Him. They condemn us both for denying that people receive the forgiveness of sins on account of their own merits and for affirming that people receive the forgiveness of sins by faith and are justified by faith in Christ.”
Ap IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Good works follow faith, while Christ remains the only ground of acceptance before God.
VII and VIII. The ChurchAp VII–VIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Article fourteen, in which we say that no one should be allowed to administer the Word and the sacraments unless they are duly called, they accept with the proviso that we use canonical ordination.”
Ap VII–VIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Identifies the church by the Gospel and Sacraments and distinguishes it from human organization alone.
IX. BaptismAp IX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] They approve the ninth article, in which we confess that baptism is necessary for salvation, that children are to be baptized, and that the baptism of children is not ineffective but is necessary and efficacious for salvation. [2] Since the gospel is purely and carefully taught among us, we have received, by God’s favor, this additional fruit from it: that no Anabaptists have arisen in our churches, because the people have been fortified by God’s Word against the ungodly and seditious faction of these crooks.”
Ap IX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Defends Baptism, including the Baptism of infants, as God’s promise and work.
X. The Lord’s SupperAp X
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] They approve the tenth article, in which we confess our judgment that in the Lord’s Supper, the body and blood of Christ are truly and substantially present and are truly distributed267 with those things that are seen, the bread and wine, to those who receive the sacrament. Our preachers constantly defend this position.”
Ap X, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses Christ’s true body and blood in the Sacrament.
XII. RepentanceAp XII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the twelfth article they approve the first part, where we explain that “those who have fallen after baptism can receive forgiveness of sins ‘whenever,’ and as often as, ‘they are converted.’ ” They condemn the second part, in which we say that the parts of repentance are contrition and faith. In particular, they deny that faith is the second part of repentance. [2] What are we to do here, O Charles, Most Invincible Emperor? This is the very voice of the gospel itself, that we receive the forgiveness of sins by faith.”
Ap XII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Repentance includes contrition and faith in the absolution, with fruits that follow.
XIII. The Number and Use of the SacramentsAp XIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the thirteenth article the opponents approve the statement that the sacraments are not simply marks of profession among people, as some think, but rather they are signs and testimonies of God’s will toward us, through which God moves hearts to believe. [2] But here they insist that we also enumerate seven sacraments. Now, we believe that we have the responsibility not to neglect any of the rites and ceremonies instituted in Scripture, however many there may be.”
Ap XIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Treats sacramental signs as divine commands joined to promises of grace.
XIV. Ecclesiastical OrderAp XIV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Article fourteen, in which we say that no one should be allowed to administer the Word and the sacraments unless they are duly called, they accept with the proviso that we use canonical ordination.”
Ap XIV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Affirms the need for a regular call while expressing willingness to preserve canonical polity.
XV. Human TraditionsAp XV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In article fifteen they accept the first part, where we say that those ecclesiastical rites ought to be observed which can be observed without sin and which contribute to tranquillity and good order in the church.”
Ap XV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Rejects traditions as meritorious while preserving useful order and peace.
XVI. Political OrderAp XVI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The opponents accept article sixteen without qualification. In it we confessed “that it is permissible for a Christian to hold public office, to render verdicts on the basis of imperial laws or other established laws, to prescribe just punishments, to engage in just wars, to serve in the military, to enter into legal contracts, to own property, to take an oath when magistrates require it, or to contract marriage.””
Ap XVI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses civil government and lawful vocation as God’s good ordering gifts.
XVIII. Free WillAp XVIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The opponents accept article eighteen concerning the freedom of the will, although they add several references that are not at all applicable to this matter. They also make a big point that too much should not be granted to the free will as with the Pelagians nor should all freedom be denied it as with the Manichaeans.416 [2] Well said! But what is the difference between the Pelagians and our opponents?”
Ap XVIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Distinguishes outward civil ability from the Spirit’s work in conversion.
XX. Good WorksAp XX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the twentieth article they expressly state that they reject and condemn our statement that people do not merit the forgiveness of sins by good works. They clearly declare that they reject and condemn this article. What more must be said on such a clear issue? [2] The framers of the Confutation have openly shown what spirit leads them.”
Ap XX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Shows why the evangelical teaching produces good works without trusting them for justification.
XXI. Invocation of the SaintsAp XXI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] They condemn article twenty-one completely, because we do not require the invocation of the saints. On no other topic do they speechify more prolixly. And yet they are unable to demonstrate anything other than that the saints should be honored, and likewise, that the saints who are still living should pray for one another—as if for that reason invocation of dead saints were also necessary. [2] They cite Cyprian, because he asked Cornelius, while he was still alive, to pray for his disciples after his departure.”
Ap XXI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses Christ as the sole mediator and directs prayer to God through him.
XXIV. The MassAp XXIV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] At the outset it is again necessary, by way of preface, to point out that we do not abolish the Mass but religiously retain and defend it. Among us the Mass is celebrated every Lord’s day and on other festivals, when the sacrament is made available to those who wish to partake of it, after they have been examined and absolved. We also keep traditional liturgical forms, such as the order of readings, prayers, vestments, and other similar things.”
Ap XXIV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Defends the Sacrament as Christ’s gift and rejects treating it as a work that earns grace.
XXVII. Monastic VowsAp XXVII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the Thuringian town of Eisenach thirty years ago, there was, to our knowledge, a Franciscan monk named John Hilten, who was cast into prison by his order because he had condemned some very notorious abuses. We have seen his writings, in which the gist of his teaching can be well understood. Those who knew him testify that he was a mild old man, serious, to be sure, but not morose. [2] He predicted many things, some of which have already come to pass, and others of which still seem to lie ahead.”
Ap XXVII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Examines vows in light of faith, freedom, vocation, and God’s commands.
XXVIII. Ecclesiastical PowerAp XXVIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Here the opponents rant about the privileges and immunities of ecclesiastical status, and they conclude with the summary: “Everything that the present article states against the immunity of churches and priests is false.” [2] This is sheer slander, for in this article we were arguing about other things. Besides, we have frequently testified that we do not criticize political ordinances nor the gifts and privileges bestowed by princes. [3] If the opponents would only listen to the complaints of churches and pious hearts!”
Ap XXVIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Clarifies the church’s authority to preach, forgive, and administer Christ’s gifts.
The Smalcald Articles
Luther’s compact confession prepared for a possible council, distinguishing settled catholic teaching from disputed abuses.
The chief article is that Jesus Christ alone has redeemed sinners, and faith alone receives this treasure.Part I. The Divine MajestySA I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“1. That Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons in one divine essence and nature, is one God, who created heaven and earth, etc. 2. That the Father was begotten by no one, the Son was begotten by the Father, and the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son. 3. That neither the Father nor the Holy Spirit, but the Son, became a human being. 4. That the Son became a human being in this way: he was conceived by the Holy Spirit without male participation and was born of the pure, holy Virgin Mary.”
SA I, Kolb-Wengert edition
The ancient articles of the Trinity and Christ confessed by the church.
Part II, I. The Chief ArticleSA II I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] That Jesus Christ, our God and Lord, “was handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification” (Rom. 4[:25*]); [2] and he alone is “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1[:29*]); and “the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isa. 53[:6*]); [3] furthermore, “All have sinned,” and “they are now justified without merit by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus … by his blood” (Rom. 3[:23–25*]).”
SA II I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ alone is our righteousness, received through faith without works or merit.
Part II, II. The MassSA II II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[11] Besides all this, this dragon’s tail, the Mass, has produced many noxious maggots and the excrement of various idolatries:”
SA II II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Rejects the Mass as a human work offered for sin while preserving Christ’s Supper as gift.
Part II, IV. The PapacySA II IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] That the pope is not the head of all Christendom “by divine right” or on the basis of God’s Word,51 because that belongs only to the one who is called Jesus Christ. Instead, the pope is only bishop, or pastor, of the church at Rome and of those who willingly or through a human institution (that is, through secular authority) have joined themselves to him in order to be Christians alongside him as a brother and companion but not under him as a lord—as the ancient councils53 and the time of St. Cyprian demonstrate.”
SA II IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Rejects claims that place human authority over Christ’s Word and the church.
Part III, I. SinSA III I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Here we must confess (as St. Paul says in Rom. 5[:12*]) that sin comes from that one human being, Adam, through whose disobedience all people became sinners and subject to death and the devil. This is called the original sin, or the chief sin. [2] The fruits of this sin are the subsequent evil works, which are forbidden in the Ten Commandments, such as unbelief, false belief, idolatry, being without the fear of God, presumption, despair, blindness, and, in short, not knowing or honoring God.”
SA III I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Names both inherited corruption and its fruits in human life.
Part III, II. The LawSA III II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Here we maintain that the law was given by God, in the first place, to curb sin by means of the threat and terror of punishment and also by means of the promise and offer of grace and favor. All of this failed because of the evil that sin worked in humankind. [2] Some, who are enemies of the law because it prohibits what they want to do and commands what they do not want to do, became worse because of it. On account of this, insofar as they are not restrained by punishment, they act against the law even more than before.”
SA III II, Kolb-Wengert edition
God’s Law reveals sin and brings false security to an end.
Part III, III. RepentanceSA III III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The New Testament retains this office of the law and teaches it, as Paul does and says, in Romans 1[:18*]: “The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all” people. Also Romans 3[:19–20*]: “So that … the whole world may be held accountable to God” and “no human being will be justified in his sight”; and Christ says in John 16[:8*]: the Holy Spirit “will convict the world of sin.””
SA III III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Law brings contrition; the Gospel announces forgiveness through Christ.
Part III, IV. The GospelSA III IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“We now want to return to the gospel, which gives guidance and help against sin in more than one way, because God is extravagantly rich in his grace: first, through the spoken word, in which the forgiveness of sins is preached to the whole world (which is the proper function of the gospel); second, through baptism; third, through the holy Sacrament of the Altar; fourth, through the power of the keys and also through the mutual conversation and consolation of brothers and sisters. Matthew 18[:20*]: “Where two or three are gathered …””
SA III IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
The Gospel comes richly through preaching, Baptism, the Supper, and the mutual consolation of believers.
Part III, V. BaptismSA III V
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Baptism is nothing other than God’s Word in the water, commanded by God’s institution, or, as Paul says, “washing by the Word.” Moreover, Augustine says, “Let the Word be added to the element, and a sacrament results.” [2] Therefore we do not agree with Thomas and the Dominicans who forget the Word (God’s institution) and say that God has placed a spiritual power in the water which, through the water, washes away sin.”
SA III V, Kolb-Wengert edition
Baptism is God’s Word in the water, not merely a human act.
Part III, VI. The Sacrament of the AltarSA III VI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] We maintain that the bread and the wine in the Supper are the true body and blood of Christ and that they are not only offered to and received by upright Christians but also by evil ones. [2] And we maintain that no one should distribute only one kind in the sacrament. Nor do we need the lofty learning which teaches us that there is as much under one kind as under both. This is how the sophists and the Council of Constance teach.”
SA III VI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ gives his true body and blood to be received according to his Word.
Part III, VII. The KeysSA III VII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The keys are an office and authority given to the church by Christ to bind and loose sins—not only the crude and notorious sins but also the subtle, secret ones that only God knows. As it is written [Ps. 19:12*], “But who can detect their errors?” And Paul himself complains in Romans 7[:23*] that with his flesh he served the “law of sin.” [2] For it is not in our power but in God’s alone to judge which, how great, and how many sins there are. As it is written [Ps.”
SA III VII, Kolb-Wengert edition
The keys are Christ’s office and power to bind and loose sins.
Part III, VIII. ConfessionSA III VIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Because absolution or the power of the keys is also a comfort and help against sin and a bad conscience and was instituted by Christ in the gospel, confession, or absolution, should by no means be allowed to fall into disuse in the church—especially for the sake of weak consciences and for the wild young people, so that they may be examined and instructed in Christian teaching. [2] However, the enumeration of sins ought to be a matter of choice for each individual: each person should be able to determine what and what not to enumerate.”
SA III VIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Absolution is treasured without requiring an exhaustive enumeration of sins.
Part III, X. Ordination and VocationSA III X
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] If the bishops wanted to be true bishops and to attend to the church and the gospel, then a person might—for the sake of love and unity but not out of necessity—give them leave to ordain and confirm us and our preachers, provided all the pretense and fraud of unchristian ceremony and pomp were set aside. [2] However, they are not now and do not want to be true bishops. Rather, they are political lords and princes who do not want to preach, teach, baptize, commune, or perform any proper work or office of the church.”
SA III X, Kolb-Wengert edition
The church needs faithful ministers called to preach and administer Christ’s gifts.
Part III, XI. The Marriage of PriestsSA III XI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] They had neither the authority nor the right to forbid marriage and burden the divine estate of priests with perpetual celibacy. Instead, they acted like anti-Christian, tyrannical, wicked scoundrels and thereby gave occasion for all kinds of horrible, abominable, and countless sins of unchastity, in which they are still mired.”
SA III XI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Human rules may not forbid what God permits and blesses.
Part III, XII. The ChurchSA III XII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] We do not concede to them that they are the church, and frankly they are not the church. [2] We do not want to hear what they command or forbid in the name of the church, because, God be praised, a seven-year-old child knows what the church is: holy believers and “the little sheep who hear the voice of their shepherd.” [3] This is why children pray in this way, “I believe in one holy Christian church.””
SA III XII, Kolb-Wengert edition
The church is the holy believers and sheep who hear their Shepherd’s voice.
Part III, XIII. Justification and Good WorksSA III XIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] I cannot change at all what I have consistently taught about this until now, namely, that “through faith” (as St. Peter says) we receive a different, new, clean heart and that, for the sake of Christ our mediator, God will and does regard us as completely righteous and holy. Although sin in the flesh is still not completely gone or dead, God will nevertheless not count it or consider it.”
SA III XIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Faith makes the person righteous through Christ; good works necessarily follow.
Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope
A confessional account of church authority, the papacy, bishops, and the Gospel’s ministry.
All church authority is ministerial, serving Christ’s Word rather than competing with Christ’s lordship.The Roman Pontiff Is Not Superior by Divine RightTr 1–59
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The bishop of Rome claims to be superior by divine right to all bishops and pastors. [2] In addition, he claims to possess by divine right the power of both swords, [3] that is, the authority to confer and transfer royal authority. Third, he states that it is necessary for salvation to believe these things. For these reasons the Roman bishop calls himself the vicar of Christ on earth. [4] We hold and publicly declare that these three articles of faith are false, impious, tyrannical, and ruinous to the church.”
Tr 1–59, Kolb-Wengert edition
Examines papal claims under Scripture and the church’s ancient witness.
The Power and Jurisdiction of BishopsTr 60–82
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[60] In the Augsburg Confession and Apology we have set forth in general what needs to be said about ecclesiastical power. The gospel bestows upon those who preside over the churches the commission to proclaim the gospel, forgive sins, and administer the sacraments. In addition, it bestows legal authority, that is, the charge to excommunicate those whose crimes are public knowledge and to absolve those who repent.”
Tr 60–82, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains the shared Gospel ministry of bishops and pastors.
The Small Catechism
Luther’s household summary of the Christian faith, designed to be learned, prayed, and lived.
The Catechism teaches the baptized to receive every command, promise, prayer, and Sacrament through Christ.The Ten CommandmentsSC, Ten Commandments
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“We are to fear, love, and trust God above all things.”
SC, Ten Commandments, Kolb-Wengert edition
God’s good will for love of God and neighbor, exposing sin and guiding vocation.
The Apostles’ CreedSC, Creed
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father in eternity, and also a true human being, born of the Virgin Mary, is my LORD. He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned human being. He has purchased and freed me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with gold or silver but with his holy, precious blood and with his innocent suffering and death.”
SC, Creed, Kolb-Wengert edition
The triune God creates, redeems, sanctifies, and keeps his people.
The Lord’s PrayerSC, Lord’s Prayer
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“60What is this? Answer: [2] With these words God wants to entice us, so that we come to believe he is truly our Father and we are truly his children, in order that we may ask him boldly and with complete confidence, just as loving children ask their loving father.”
SC, Lord’s Prayer, Kolb-Wengert edition
Jesus gives his disciples words of trust for every need of body and soul.
Holy BaptismSC, Baptism
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“Baptism is not simply plain water. Instead it is water enclosed in God’s command and connected with God’s Word. [3] What then is this Word of God? Answer: [4] Where our LORD Christ says in Matthew 28[:19*], “Go into all the world, teach all nations,78 and baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.””
SC, Baptism, Kolb-Wengert edition
Water included in God’s command and combined with God’s Word gives forgiveness, life, and salvation.
ConfessionSC, Confession
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“Confession consists of two parts. One is that we confess our sins. The other is that we receive the absolution, that is, forgiveness, from the confessor as from God himself and by no means doubt but firmly believe that our sins are thereby forgiven before God in heaven. [17] Which sins is a person to confess? [18] Before God one is to acknowledge the guilt for all sins, even those of which we are not aware, as we do in the Lord’s Prayer. However, before the confessor we are to confess only those sins of which we have knowledge and which trouble us.”
SC, Confession, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christians confess sins and receive absolution as from God himself.
The Sacrament of the AltarSC, Sacrament of the Altar
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ under the bread and wine, instituted by Christ himself for us Christians to eat and to drink. [3] Where is this written? Answer: [4] The holy evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and St. Paul write thus: “Our LORD Jesus Christ, on the night in which he was betrayed, took the bread, gave thanks, and broke it and gave it to his disciples and said, ‘Take; eat; this is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’”
SC, Sacrament of the Altar, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ gives his body and blood for forgiveness, life, and salvation.
Daily PrayersSC, Daily Prayers
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT““God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit watch over me. Amen.” [2] Then, kneeling or standing, say the Apostles’ Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. If you wish, you may in addition recite this little prayer as well: “I give thanks to you, my heavenly Father through Jesus Christ your dear Son, that you have protected me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you that you would also protect me today from sin and all evil, so that my life and actions may please you completely. For into your hands I commend myself: my body, my soul, and all that is mine.”
SC, Daily Prayers, Kolb-Wengert edition
Morning, evening, and table prayers place ordinary life under God’s Word and care.
Table of DutiesSC, Table of Duties
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[7] The children and the members of the household are to come devoutly to the table, fold their hands, and recite: “The eyes of all wait upon you, O LORD, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy all living things with delight.” [8] Comment: “Delight” means that all animals receive enough to eat to make them joyful and of good cheer, because worry and greed prevent such delight.”
SC, Table of Duties, Kolb-Wengert edition
Selected biblical texts guide Christians in their particular vocations.
The Large Catechism
Luther’s fuller pastoral exposition of the Catechism for preachers, teachers, households, and lifelong learners.
Christian instruction is not graduation from grace. It is a lifelong return to Christ’s promises.PrefacesLC, Prefaces
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] This sermon has been designed and undertaken for the instruction of children and the uneducated. Hence from ancient times it has been called, in Greek, a “catechism”—that is, instruction for children. [2] It contains what every Christian should know. Anyone who does not know it should not be numbered among Christians nor admitted to any sacrament, just as artisans who do not know the rules and practices of their craft are rejected and considered incompetent.”
LC, Prefaces, Kolb-Wengert edition
Calls pastors and households to persistent, humble learning of the Catechism.
The Ten CommandmentsLC I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT““You are to have no other gods.” [1] That is, you are to regard me alone as your God. What does this mean, and how is it to be understood? What does “to have a god” mean, or what is God? [2] Answer: A “god” is the term for that to which we are to look for all good and in which we are to find refuge in all need. Therefore, to have a god is nothing else than to trust and believe in that one with your whole heart. As I have often said, it is the trust and faith of the heart alone that make both God and an idol.”
LC I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains faith and love under each commandment and exposes the idols of the heart.
The CreedLC II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Thus far we have heard the first part of Christian teaching, and in it we have seen all that God wishes us to do and not to do. The Creed properly follows, which sets forth all that we must expect and receive from God; in short, it teaches us to know him perfectly. [2] It is given in order to help us do what the Ten Commandments require of us. For, as we said above, they are set so high that all human ability is far too puny and weak to keep them.”
LC II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Shows the Father’s gifts, the Son’s redemption, and the Spirit’s sanctifying work.
The Lord’s PrayerLC III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] We have now heard what we are to do and believe. The best and most blessed life consists of these things. [2] Now follows the third part, how we are to pray. We are in such a situation that no one can keep the Ten Commandments perfectly, even though he or she has begun to believe. Besides, the devil, along with the world and our flesh, resists them with all his power.”
LC III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Teaches believers to bring every need to the Father on the strength of his command and promise.
BaptismLC IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT““Go and teach all nations, and baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” “The one who believes and is baptized will be saved; but the one who does not believe will be condemned.” [22] It is enough for an ordinary person to know this much about baptism from the Scriptures. The same applies to the other sacrament, mentioning a few, simple words according to the text of St. Paul.”
LC IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Unfolds Baptism as God’s saving work and the daily drowning of the old creature.
The Sacrament of the AltarLC V
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] As we heard about Holy Baptism, so we must speak about the second sacrament in the same way, under three headings, stating what it is, what its benefits are, and who is to receive it. All this is established from the words Christ used to institute it. [2] So everyone who wishes to be a Christian and to go to the sacrament should know them. For we do not intend to admit to the sacrament and administer it to those who do not know what they seek or why they come.”
LC V, Kolb-Wengert edition
Directs hungry consciences to Christ’s words, body, blood, and forgiveness.
A Brief Exhortation to ConfessionLC, Exhortation to Confession
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning confession we have always taught that it should be voluntary and purged of the pope’s tyranny. We have been set free from his coercion and from the intolerable burden and weight he imposed upon the Christian community. Up to now, as we all know from experience, there has been no law quite so oppressive as that which forced everyone to make confession on pain of the gravest mortal sin. [2] Moreover, it so greatly burdened and tortured consciences with the enumeration of all kinds of sin that no one was able to confess purely enough.”
LC, Exhortation to Confession, Kolb-Wengert edition
Commends confession and absolution as a consoling opportunity to hear the Gospel personally.
Formula of Concord, Epitome
A concise summary resolving controversies that divided Lutherans after Luther’s death.
Each controversy is tested by the prophetic and apostolic Scriptures and ordered toward the comfort of the Gospel.Binding Summary, Rule, and Guiding PrincipleFC Ep, Rule and Norm
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“according to which all teaching is to be judged and the errors which have arisen are to be explained and decided in Christian fashion. [1] 1. We believe, teach, and confess that the only rule and guiding principle according to which all teachings and teachers are to be evaluated and judged are the prophetic and apostolic writings of the Old and New Testaments alone, as it is written, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps.”
FC Ep, Rule and Norm, Kolb-Wengert edition
Holy Scripture is the only rule and norm; the Confessions witness to its teaching.
I. Original SinFC Ep I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Whether original sin is really, without any distinction, the corrupted nature, substance, and essence of the human creature, or indeed the most important and best part of its essence, as the rational soul itself at the height of its development and powers? Or whether, even after the fall, there is a distinction between the human substance, nature, essence, body and soul, and original sin, in such a way that human nature is one thing and original sin, which is imbedded in the corrupted nature and which corrupts this nature, is another? p 488”
FC Ep I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses deep human corruption while distinguishing sin from God’s created human nature.
II. Free WillFC Ep II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Because the human will is found in four dissimilar situations (1. before the fall; 2. after the fall; 3. after new birth; 4. after the resurrection of the flesh), the primary question concerns only the human will and capacity in the second situation: what kind of powers do human beings have after the fall of our first parents, before rebirth, on their own, in spiritual matters?”
FC Ep II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Conversion is the Holy Spirit’s work through the Word, not a natural human capacity.
III. The Righteousness of FaithFC Ep III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Our churches unanimously confess on the basis of God’s Word and in accord with the content of the Augsburg Confession that we poor sinners become righteous before God and are saved only through faith in Christ, and that therefore Christ alone is our righteousness. He is truly God and human because in him the divine and human natures are personally united with each other (Jer. 23[:6*]; 1 Cor. 1[:30*]; 2 Cor. 5[:21*]). Because of this confession, the question arose: According to which nature is Christ our righteousness?”
FC Ep III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ’s obedience and righteousness are received through faith for justification.
IV. Good WorksFC Ep IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Regarding the teaching on good works two controversies arose in some churches: [2] First some theologians split over the following expressions. The first party wrote: good works are necessary for salvation; it is impossible to be saved without good works; and no one has ever been saved without good works. Against this position the other party wrote: good works are harmful to salvation. [3] Later a split occurred among some theologians over the two words “necessary” and “free.””
FC Ep IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Good works necessarily follow faith but neither earn nor preserve salvation.
V. Law and GospelFC Ep V
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Whether the preaching of the holy gospel is really not only a preaching of grace, which proclaims the forgiveness of sins, but also a preaching of repentance and rebuke, which condemns unbelief (something condemned not in the law but only by the gospel).”
FC Ep V, Kolb-Wengert edition
Law exposes sin; Gospel proclaims the forgiveness won by Christ.
VI. The Third Use of the LawFC Ep VI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The law has been given to people for three reasons: first, that through it external discipline may be maintained against the unruly and the disobedient; second, that people may be led through it to a recognition of their sins; third, after they have been reborn—since nevertheless the flesh still clings to them—that precisely because of the flesh they may have a sure guide, according to which they can orient and conduct their entire life. In this connection a dispute occurred among a few theologians over the third use of the law.”
FC Ep VI, Kolb-Wengert edition
The Law also instructs the regenerate, whose old Adam still needs restraint.
VII. The Holy SupperFC Ep VII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Although those who teach Zwinglian doctrine are not to be counted among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession—since they separated themselves from this confession immediately, at the time it was presented—we, nonetheless, want to report on this controversy because they are insinuating themselves and spreading their error under the name of this Christian confession.”
FC Ep VII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Christ’s body and blood are truly present, distributed, and received.
VIII. The Person of ChristFC Ep VIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Out of the controversy regarding the Holy Supper there arose a disagreement between the theologians of the Augsburg Confession who teach purely and the Calvinists (who also led some other theologians astray) over the person of Christ, the two natures in Christ, and their characteristics.”
FC Ep VIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses the personal union and communication of attributes in Christ.
IX. Christ’s Descent into HellFC Ep IX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Among some theologians committed to the Augsburg Confession there has been some dispute regarding this article: when and in what manner the Lord Christ descended into hell, according to our simple Christian creed, and whether it took place before or after his death. Also, whether he descended only in his soul, or only in his deity, or with body and soul, bodily and spiritually. Also, whether this article of faith belongs to the suffering of Christ or to his glorious victory and triumph.”
FC Ep IX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Confesses Christ’s victorious descent without speculative explanation.
X. Church PracticesFC Ep X
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] A dispute also occurred among theologians of the Augsburg Confession over ceremonies or ecclesiastical practices that are neither commanded nor forbidden in God’s Word but that were introduced in the churches for the sake of good order and decorum.”
FC Ep X, Kolb-Wengert edition
Distinguishes free ceremonies from matters commanded or forbidden by God.
XI. ElectionFC Ep XI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] On this article there has been no public conflict among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession. However, because it is an article of comfort when properly treated, it is also explained in this document so that no offensive dispute may arise in the future.”
FC Ep XI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Treats election in Christ as Gospel comfort rather than speculation about God’s hidden will.
XII. Other Factions and SectsFC Ep XII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] So that such heretical groups and sects may not tacitly be associated with us because we have not taken notice of them in the previous explanation of our teaching, we wish here at the end to list only the simple statements of doctrine in which they err and teach contrary to our Christian faith and confession, as we have presented it in detail.”
FC Ep XII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Identifies teachings judged contrary to the biblical confession.
Formula of Concord, Solid Declaration
The Formula’s fuller explanation of the same twelve controversies, arguments, and biblical conclusions.
The Solid Declaration seeks durable unity through clear teaching that consoles consciences with Christ.Binding Summary, Foundation, Rule, and NormFC SD, Rule and Norm
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“How All Teaching Is to Be Judged in Accord with God’s Word and How the Errors That Have Arisen Are to Be Explained and Decided in Christian Fashion.”
FC SD, Rule and Norm, Kolb-Wengert edition
Defines Scripture’s unique authority and the Confessions’ subordinate witness.
I. Original SinFC SD I
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] First,18 a dispute took place among some theologians of the Augsburg Confession regarding original sin and its true meaning. One party contended that because “through Adam’s fall the whole human nature and essence is corrupted,”20 after the fall the corrupted creature’s nature, substance, essence, even the noblest, most important part of its essence—the rational soul at its highest level and with its most foremost powers—is original sin itself, and has been called nature-sin or person-sin, because it is not a thought, word, or deed but the nature…”
FC SD I, Kolb-Wengert edition
Carefully distinguishes created human nature from the corruption that infects it.
II. Free WillFC SD II
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Because a conflict developed not only between the papists and our theologians but also among some theologians of the Augsburg Confession over the topic of the free will, we want to indicate first of all what this controversy was about.54 [2] Because the human being with its free will can be found and analyzed in four distinct, dissimilar conditions,55 the present question is not how the will functioned as originally created, before the fall, or what powers it exercises in external matters concerning temporal life before its conversion, or what kind…”
FC SD II, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains the Spirit’s converting work through the external Word and Means of Grace.
III. The Righteousness of FaithFC SD III
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] rThe third conflict among some theologians of the Augsburg Confession concerned the righteousness of Christ, or of faith, which God reckons to poor sinners as righteousness through faith on the basis of his grace. [2] The one party argued that the righteousness of faith, which the apostle Paul calls the righteousness of God, is the essential righteousness of God, which Christ himself (as the true, natural, essential Son of God) is.101 He dwells in the elect through faith and impels them to do what is right and is therefore their righteousness.”
FC SD III, Kolb-Wengert edition
Locates justifying righteousness in Christ and his obedience received by faith.
IV. Good WorksFC SD IV
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] rA dispute over good works arose among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession. One party used the following language: “Good works are necessary for salvation.” “It is impossible to be saved without good works.” And: “No one is saved apart from good works.”137 They explained that they used these expressions because good works are demanded from those who believe in Christ as fruits of faith and because faith without love is dead, although this love is not the cause of salvation.”
FC SD IV, Kolb-Wengert edition
Clarifies necessity, freedom, reward, and the exclusion of works from justification.
V. Law and GospelFC SD V
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] The distinction between law and gospel is a particularly glorious light.153 It serves to divide God’s Word properly [cf. 2 Tim. 2:15*] and to explain correctly and make understandable the writings of the holy prophets and apostles. Therefore, we must diligently preserve this distinction, so as not to mix these two teachings together and make the gospel into a law. For this obscures the merit of Christ and robs troubled consciences of the comfort that they otherwise have in the holy gospel when it is preached clearly and purely.”
FC SD V, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains the distinct offices of accusation and promise.
VI. The Third Use of the LawFC SD VI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] rThe law of God is used (1) to maintain external discipline and respectability against dissolute, disobedient people and (2) to bring such people to a recognition of their sins. (3) It is also used when those who have been born anew through God’s Spirit, converted to the Lord, and had the veil of Moses removed for them live and walk in the law. A dispute arose among a few theologians over this third and final use of the law.”
FC SD VI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Describes the Law’s ongoing use among Christians without confusing it with the Gospel.
VII. The Holy SupperFC SD VII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] rTo be sure, in the opinion of some the explanation of this article should perhaps not be placed in this document, since we intend to explain only the articles which have led to dispute among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession. As early as 1530, when the Confession was drafted and submitted to the emperor at Augsburg, the sacramentarians completely distanced and separated themselves from us. They submitted their own confession at that time.”
FC SD VII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Offers a detailed confession of Christ’s testament and the sacramental union.
VIII. The Person of ChristFC SD VIII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] A dispute arose among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession regarding the person of Christ. It did not initially begin among them but originated from the sacramentarians.244 [2] When with his thorough argumentation Dr.”
FC SD VIII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains Christ’s two natures, personal union, and majesty.
IX. Christ’s Descent into HellFC SD IX
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Because among the teachers of the ancient church as well as among some of us different explanations of the article on Christ’s descent into hell may be found,305 we remain with the simple explanation of the Christian creed, to which Dr. Luther directs us in his sermon held in 1533 at the castle in Torgau on Christ’s descent into hell. Therefore, we confess, “I believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord, God’s Son, who died, was buried, and descended into hell.””
FC SD IX, Kolb-Wengert edition
Keeps the article as a confession of Christ’s triumph.
X. Church PracticesFC SD X
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] In the same way a dispute arose among some theologians of the Augsburg Confession over ceremonies and ecclesiastical practices that are neither commanded nor forbidden in God’s Word but have been introduced into the church with good intentions for the sake of good order and decorum or to maintain Christian discipline.307 [2] cOne party held that even in a time of persecution that demands confession of the faith—when the enemies of the holy gospel have not come to agreement with us in public teaching—it is permissible with a clear conscience, under…”
FC SD X, Kolb-Wengert edition
Explains adiaphora, confession under persecution, and Christian freedom.
XI. ElectionFC SD XI
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] To be sure, there has been no public, scandalous, or widespread conflict among the theologians of the Augsburg Confession on the eternal election of the children of God. Nonetheless, given that very violent disputes concerning this article took place elsewhere that even aroused some concern among our own people, and given that theologians have not always used the same language, we wanted by God’s grace to set forth an explanation of these issues for our posterity and for us in order to prevent disunity and schism over these issues.”
FC SD XI, Kolb-Wengert edition
Finds election in the revealed Gospel of Christ and rejects both despair and carnal security.
XII. Other Factions and SectsFC SD XII
EXACT SOURCE EXCERPT“[1] Concerning the sects and factions that never accepted the Augsburg Confession and have not been explicitly mentioned in this explanation, namely, Anabaptists, Schwenckfelders, new Arians, and Antitrinitarians: [2] their errors have been unanimously condemned in all churches of the Augsburg Confession. For these reasons we did not want to make special mention of them here because that was not the purpose of this document.”
FC SD XII, Kolb-Wengert edition
Names rejected positions outside the controversies among Augsburg Confession churches.