A CATECHISM REVIEW

Go back to the basics and review the teachings of Luther’s Small Catechism. Excerpts taken from the 2017 version of the Small Catechism published by Northwestern Publishing House. Note: The numbers preceding the questions are the numbers listed in the print version (2017) of the catechism.

For further reading, check out James Borgwardt's series titled "Catechism truths from Matthew":

Article one: Apostles' Creed

Article two: The Ten Commandments

Article three: The Lord's Prayer

Article four: The keys and confession

Article five: The Lord's Supper

Article six: Baptism

Back to the basics: Baptism

December 3-9: The institution

A very special day

Can you remember the day of your baptism? Those who were baptized as infants may remember seeing pictures and hearing stories about that day. Those who were baptized when they were older may clearly recall the sensation of water and the sound of the powerful words.

The day of a person’s baptism is a very special day. God’s Word will show us what baptism is and why our baptisms are important.

301. When we speak of the institution of Baptism, we are pointing to the time when Jesus established Baptism as a sacred act to be followed by the church. When did God institute the Sacrament of Baptism?

Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

After his resurrection, Jesus met with the apostles on a mountain in Galilee where he commanded them to make disciples by baptizing people of all nations and teaching them God’s Word.

302. What does the word baptize mean?

Mark 7:3,4 The Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash [“baptize” in Greek]. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers and kettles.

The word baptize, as used in New Testament times, means “to apply water in various ways: immerse, wash, pour, or sprinkle.”

A closer look

Special water is not required for Baptism. Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River. As Philip was teaching an Ethiopian the gospel of Jesus, they happened on a source of water and the Ethiopian asked to be baptized.

When the prison doors were miraculously opened for Paul and Silas (Acts 16:16-34), they had a chance to teach the jailer and his family about Jesus. In the middle of the night, Paul and Silas baptized the jailer’s family. They all simply used the water that was available to them.

303. Why do we say that the Sacrament of Baptism is not just plain water?

Matthew 28:19 [Jesus commanded,] “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Ephesians 5:25,26 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word.

Baptism is not simply plain water but water used by God’s command and connected with God’s Word.

306. Why is it important that little children also are baptized?

Matthew 28:19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:38,39 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Little children are a part of “all nations” and, therefore, are included among those Jesus commands to be baptized.

Psalm 51:5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

Ephesians 2:3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.

John 3:5,6 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.”

Little children are by nature sinful and deserve God’s punishment. They must be born again by the Holy Spirit working through the gospel.

Mark 10:13-16 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

Matthew 18:6 If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.

Luke 18:15-17 People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Jesus invites little children to be brought to him and points to their faith. The Holy Spirit is able to work faith in the hearts of children.

307. Why are adults instructed before being baptized?

Acts 2:38,39,41 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

Acts 16:29-34 (The jailer at Philippi was taught about Jesus and then was baptized.)

Acts 8:26-39 (Philip taught the Ethiopian about Jesus and about Baptism. Then the Ethiopian was baptized.)

Before baptizing adults, we teach them about Jesus and about Baptism, following the model given in the Scriptures.

December 10-16: The blessings

308. What blessings does God give through Baptism?

Acts 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Acts 22:16 Now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.

Through Baptism, God forgives sins.

Romans 6:3-5 Don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.

Hebrews 2:14,15 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.

Colossians 1:13 He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves.

Through Baptism, God delivers from death and the power of the devil.

Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

1 Peter 3:21 Baptism . . . now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Titus 3:5 He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

Through Baptism, God gives eternal salvation.

309. Jesus won forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation for us on a cross. Why do we say that Baptism works these blessings?

Galatians 3:27 All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

Romans 6:3,5 Don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.

1 Corinthians 6:11 You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

1 Peter 3:21 Baptism . . . now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Through Baptism, we are joined to Christ’s death and resurrection. Through Baptism, we receive the benefits of all that Christ has done. It is for this reason that Baptism is a means of grace.

Connections

God’s gift of Baptism brings incredible blessing. To help us better understand what is happening in Baptism, God compares baptismal waters to the waters of the flood. This might seem strange—the waters of the flood destroyed so much. But the waters of the flood did something else as well.

Genesis 7:6–8:5,15-22

The floodwaters not only destroyed—what else did they do? In 1 Peter 3:20,21, the Holy Spirit says, “In [the ark] only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also.” Explain how the flood can be a helpful picture as you think about your own baptism.

Luther

The power, work, profit, fruit, and purpose of Baptism is this—to save [1 Peter 3:21]. For no one is baptized in order that he may become a prince, but, as the words say, that he “be saved.” We know that to be saved is nothing other than to be delivered from sin, death, and the devil [Colossians 1:13-14]. It means to enter into Christ’s kingdom [John 3:5], and to live with Him forever. (Large Catechism, IV, par. 24-25)

God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It (Stanza 3)

Satan, hear this proclamation:
I am baptized into Christ!
Drop your ugly accusation;
I am not so soon enticed.
Now that to the font I’ve traveled,
All your might has come unraveled,
And, against your tyranny
God, my Lord, unites with me!

December 17-23: The power

Introduction

God tells us that Baptism works incredible miracles: It gives forgiveness, life, and salvation. How can Baptism do those things? There certainly is nothing special about the water. When baptisms happen today, they do not need water from the Jordan River in Israel. The water just comes out of a faucet. The words that are used might seem so simple: “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Yet Baptism does work incredible miracles. We now consider the power that is behind Baptism.

311. Baptism works forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation. Why is Baptism able to offer and give such great blessings?

John 3:5,6 Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

Acts 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Titus 3:5 He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

312. Without the work of the Holy Spirit, the water would be just plain water and not Baptism. What does the holy Spirit use to work through Baptism?

Ephesians 5:25,26 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word.

1 Peter 1:23 You have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

314. Why is Baptism called a gracious water of life and a washing of rebirth?

Ephesians 2:1 You were dead in your transgressions and sins.

John 3:3-5 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”

Titus 3:5-7 He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

Romans 6:4,8 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.

Baptism is a gracious water of life and a washing of rebirth; by creating and strengthening faith, Baptism brings life—gives new birth—to those who were spiritually dead.

Connections

God’s Word is powerful; yet, so often, God dresses his Word in what might seem to be very humble clothing. Baptism is a wonderful example of that—powerful, yet humble looking. Such a contrast can present a challenge for humans. We most often value the powerful rather than the humble, so we don’t always recognize or appreciate the power in God’s Word. A high ranking military official of long ago faced that same challenge.

2 Kings 5:1-14

Naaman was not being baptized, but his attitude toward the command of Elisha was similar to the attitude some can have toward Baptism. What lessons do you think Naaman learned through his healing experience? In what ways can the lessons from this account help shape our attitude toward Baptism?

Luther

Here you see again how highly and preciously we should value Baptism, because in it we receive such an unspeakable treasure. This also proves that it cannot be ordinary, mere water. For mere water could not do such a thing. But the Word does it and, . . . so does the fact that God’s name is included in Baptism. Where God’s name is, there must also be life and salvation [Psalm 54:1]. So Baptism may certainly be called a divine, blessed, fruitful, and gracious water. Such power is given to Baptism by the Word that it is a washing of new birth, as St. Paul also calls it in Titus 3:5. (Large Catechism, IV, par. 26-27)

God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It (Stanzas 4,5)

Death, you cannot end my gladness:
I am baptized into Christ!
When I die, I leave all sadness
To inherit paradise!
Though I lie in dust and ashes
Faith’s assurance brightly flashes:
Baptism has the strength divine
To make life immortal mine.

There is nothing worth comparing
To this lifelong comfort sure!
Open-eyed my grave is staring:
Even there I’ll sleep secure.
Though my flesh awaits its raising,
Still my soul continues praising:
I am baptized into Christ;
I’m a child of paradise!

December 24-31: The Meaning for Daily Life

315. What change did the holy Spirit bring about in my life through my baptism?

Romans 8:7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.

1 Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

Ephesians 2:4,5 Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.

Romans 6:1-4 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

Ephesians 4:22-24 With regard to your former way of life, . . . put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; . . . be made new in the attitude of your minds; and . . . put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

In my baptism, God made me spiritually alive. He gave me a new self, a new person that loves the Lord and seeks to avoid sin.

316. What new attitude characterizes the new person within each of us?

2 Corinthians 5:17 If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:14,15 Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Romans 6:6 We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.

Psalm 119:104,112 I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end.

Titus 2:14 [Jesus Christ] gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Psalm 40:8 I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.

The new person in each of us is eager to do what pleases the Lord.

318. In what way does Baptism equip us to battle the old Adam in our daily lives?

Romans 6:2-4,6 We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin.

Romans 6:12,13 Do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.

In our baptisms, we were set free from slavery to sin. Our baptisms, then, have worked in us a hatred of sin, so we wish daily to put to death—to drown—our sinful nature and all of its evil desires.

A closer look

Daily we are tempted. Sometimes we stumble and fall into sin. It’s a struggle to live as a Christian. As a result, the life of a Christian is marked by contrition and repentance. Contrition is God-given sorrow over sin and recognition that we deserve his punishment for our sinful actions. Repentance is a God-given change of mind that sees sin as an enemy and trusts God’s gracious promise of forgiveness. Each day we confess our failures and sins and turn to God for his precious forgiveness. Baptism reminds us that our sins have been paid for by Jesus; we are washed and cleansed. Through Baptism, God has made us his dear children and his promises give us the strength to serve him—turning away from sin so that we can live as his children.

320. How does Baptism strengthen the new person within us for Christian living every day of our lives?

Galatians 3:26,27 In Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

Galatians 5:25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Colossians 2:6,7 Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Baptism’s promise of forgiveness, life, and salvation motivates us to give thanks to the Lord with our entire lives.

Connections

Death makes things stop. When we die, we stop breathing, talking, and walking. By nature, we were all slaves to sin and the sinful nature within us. What could put a stop to such slavery? In Baptism, our old self was crucified with Jesus so that we don’t have to be slaves to sin anymore. We are dead to sin. Now, something entirely new comes to life—a new life, a new self.

Romans 6:1-14

The Holy Spirit says that we are now “alive to God.” List ways that a person’s life is different after he or she is baptized. Sin keeps surfacing in our lives. How can our baptisms play an important part in our daily struggles with sin?

Luther

[Baptism’s power and work] is nothing other than putting to death the old Adam and affecting the new man’s resurrection after that [Romans 6:4-6]. Both of these things must take place in us all our lives. So a truly Christian life is nothing other than a daily Baptism, once begun and ever to be continued. For this must be done without ceasing, that we always keep purging away whatever belongs to the old Adam. Then what belongs to the new man may come forth. (Large Catechism, IV, par. 65)

Back to the basics: The Lord’s Supper

October 29-November 4: The institution

Lord's Supper: A blessed and important meal

The night when Jesus first instituted the Lord’s Supper was packed with drama. With his disciples, Jesus celebrated the Passover meal, which recalled God’s dramatic rescue of the Jews from Egypt. Judas was there but would disappear, only to reappear in the Garden of Gethsemane with betrayal on his lips. In the darkness of the garden, Jesus was arrested and led off to his trial before the Jewish leaders and, later, Pilate. The next day he was crucified.

During the meal, Jesus knew all this was about to happen. Yet on this night, Jesus was thinking of his disciples and us. He began something new, placing on the lips of his dearest friends the very body and blood that would soon be given and shed for the forgiveness of the sins of the world. Clearly this gift of the Lord’s Supper was incredibly special. It mattered to Jesus. It mattered for his disciples. It matters to us.

A closer look

Other names

The Lord’s Supper is also known as the Sacrament of the Altar, the Lord’s Table, Communion, Holy Communion, the Breaking of Bread, and the Eucharist.

346. When instituting the Lord’s Supper, Jesus took earthly elements—bread and wine, gave thanks to God, and gave the bread and wine to the disciples.What did Jesus say the disciples were receiving along with the bread and wine?

Matthew 26:26-29 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

Mark 14:22-24 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.

347. What, then, do we receive in the Lord’s Supper?

Mark 14:22,24 This is my body. . . . This is my blood.

1 Corinthians 10:16 Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?

1 Corinthians 11:29 Those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.

God’s Word clearly teaches that the Lord’s Supper is a special supper through which we receive Jesus’ body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine.

A closer look

False beliefs

Representation. Not all Christians believe what the Bible says about the bread and wine and the body and blood in the Sacrament. Some see the bread and wine as symbols and signs. They say that the bread merely represents the body of Christ and that the wine merely represents the blood of Christ. They see the celebration of the Lord’s Supper as merely a remembrance of what Christ did on the cross rather than as a way for God to give us what Jesus won for us on the cross: the forgiveness of sins.

In the Lord’s Supper, we do remember what Christ did, but there is more. Scripture plainly teaches that we receive Christ’s true body and blood, the very price paid for our forgiveness. Jesus said so, and he has the power to give his body and blood even if we do not understand how this can be. So the Lord’s Supper is a means of grace, a tool God uses to bring his gift of forgiveness, life, and salvation to individual hearts.

Transubstantiation. This is the view held by the Catholic Church. It teaches that the earthly elements turn into body and blood and are no longer bread and wine. First Corinthians 10:16 makes it clear that the bread and body and the wine and blood all exist in the Sacrament. God says that the cup is “a participation in,” or a sharing in (a communion with), the blood and that the bread is a sharing in the body. Those who receive the Lord’s Supper, then, receive four things: bread and wine and body and blood.

The Catholic Church believes that in the Lord’s Supper, the priest is resacrificing Jesus in order to turn away God’s wrath. The Catholic Church believes this repeated sacrifice of Jesus benefits not only those who partake of the Sacrament but also those who are dead and are not yet completely purified.

The Bible teaches that sin and its consequences were paid for once and for all time when Christ died on the cross (Hebrews 7:27; 9:28). No additional sacrifice is necessary. Also, the Bible teaches that forgiveness given in the Sacrament is full and complete—Christians are not described as “partly purified” so that they might be in need of additional help after death. Rather, the forgiveness given in the Lord’s Supper is total—“the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 John 1:7).

350. For whom did Jesus institute his Supper?

Matthew 26:26,27 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you.”

1 Corinthians 11:26,27 Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.

In this extraordinary meal, Jesus gives his true body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine. This blessing is for Christians of all times.

November 5-11: The blessings

Lord's Supper: Eternal blessings

Christians recognize the importance of the Lord’s Supper. When they face serious surgery, Christians crave the assurance that they are at peace with God. When Christian soldiers face the dangers of battle, they know the importance of God’s forgiveness. When Christians sense that death is fast approaching, they yearn for the personal comfort Jesus gives them with his body and blood in the Sacrament. When Christians are physically incapable of attending worship services, they cherish opportunities to have the pastor bring the Lord’s Supper to them privately. Yes, Christians long for the blessings God offers in the Lord’s Supper, especially in times of trouble.

All Christians are always facing fearful enemies—sin and guilt. We know that death can come at any moment. We long for the peace that comes from the forgiveness of sins, so it is no surprise that Christians treasure the blessings of the Lord’s Supper.

351. What blessings did Jesus promise to give through the Sacrament?

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Luke 22:19,20 He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”

Revelation 1:4,5 Grace and peace to you . . . from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood . . .

In the Lord’s Supper, God gives us the forgiveness of sins.

A closer look

A means of grace

The Bible shows us that the Lord’s Supper is a sacrament. The Lord’s Supper was instituted by Jesus. He commanded the use of earthly elements, bread and wine, and attached the promise of the forgiveness of sins. It is, therefore, a means of grace for us and all Christians.

1 Corinthians 11:23-25 I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

We often speak of this sacrament as Jesus’ last will and testament. On the night before he died, he bequeathed (legal term often used in a will), or set aside for distribution at his death, forgiveness through his body and blood to all believers.

353. What further blessings are ours because of the forgiveness of sins?

Romans 5:9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!

Romans 6:22,23 Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Peter 2:24,25 “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

354. In our church services, the pastor proclaims forgiveness to the entire congregation. What makes receiving the Sacrament so very comforting as well?

Luke 22:19,20 He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”

1 Corinthians 11:23-25 I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

In the Lord’s Supper, God gives forgiveness, life, and salvation in a very personal and individual way.

Connections

In 1 Corinthians 5:7, we are told that Jesus Christ is our Passover lamb. How appropriate, then, that the Lord’s Supper was instituted in the middle of a Passover celebration.

Just as the body and blood of Jesus would bring about salvation, so many years before the blood of Passover lambs brought about an amazing rescue.

Exodus 12:1-30

The Old Testament Passover celebration was a shadow of things to come (Colossians 2:17). Explain how the following pictured so well our Savior, the Passover lamb to come.

Male lamb without blemish or defect
Blood smeared on the sides and top frames of the doors
Households with blood on the door frames spared from death that night

Luther

Now examine further the effectiveness and benefits that really caused the Sacrament to be instituted. This is its most necessary part, so that we may know what we should seek and gain there. This is plain and clear from the words just mentioned, “This is my body and blood, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.” Briefly, that is like saying, “For this reason we go to the Sacrament: there we receive such a treasure by and in which we gain forgiveness of sins. . . .” On this account it is indeed called a food of souls, which nourishes and strengthens the new man (Large Catechism, V, par. 20-23).

November 12-18: The power

Lord's Supper: Saving power

Bread and wine don’t look powerful. Some might wonder whether anything impressive can really be happening in the Lord’s Supper. Usually when something is powerful, we can sense it. We can tell when an athlete is strong; we watch his performance in awe. We can feel when a rocket thunders into the sky. We shake when a bolt of lightning strikes close to our home.

But bread and wine? Of themselves, they would have no great power. But there is something that changes all that and gives humble eating and drinking power beyond imagination.

355. How do we know that we receive the great blessings of forgiveness, life, and salvation through eating and drinking in the Sacrament?

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Luke 22:19,20 He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”

Romans 5:9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!

Romans 6:22,23 Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

We have absolute confidence that the Lord’s Supper gives all of these blessings because the powerful Word of God is in the Sacrament and works through the Sacrament.

356. How do we know that God’s Word is powerful and that it is able to give us these blessings?

Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile..

Psalm 33:6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.

Matthew 8:8 The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”

Mark 4:36-39 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.

John 11:17-44 (Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead by commanding him to come out of the tomb.)

Romans 10:17 Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

357. What does the Word of God accomplish in the Lord’s Supper?

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Romans 10:17 Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.

Hebrews 11:1 Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Romans 4:20,21 He did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.

Through his Word in the Lord’s Supper, Jesus promises to give us his body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins. Through these same divine words, Jesus strengthens our faith, giving us trust in his promises and making the blessings of the Sacrament our own.

Connections

The Lord’s Supper may not look powerful, but it certainly is. This is how God so often works—he attaches a powerful promise to something seemingly humble. Many years ago, God did exactly this in the middle of a wilderness.

Numbers 21:4-9

How was it possible that a bronze serpent on a pole saved those who looked to it?

Imagine that a friend asks you, “How can eating a small piece of unleavened bread and drinking a small swallow of wine help us?” How might you use the account of the bronze serpent as part of your response?

Luther

Although the work is done and the forgiveness of sins is secured by the cross [John 19:30], it cannot come to us in any other way than through the Word. . . . But now the entire gospel and the article of the Creed—I believe in . . . the holy Christian Church, . . . the forgiveness of sins, and so on—are embodied by the Word in this Sacrament and presented to us. (Large Catechism, V, par. 30-31)

Lord Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared (Stanzas 5,6)

Though reason cannot understand,
Yet faith this truth embraces:
Your body, Lord, is ev’rywhere
At once in many places.
I leave to you how this can be;
Your Word alone suffices me;
I trust its truth unfailing.

Lord, I believe what you have said;
Help me when doubts assail me.
Remember that I am but dust,
And let my faith not fail me.
Your supper in this vale of tears
Refreshes me and stills my fears
And is my priceless treasure.

November 19-25: The reception

359. Why is it important that we are properly prepared to receive the Lord’s Supper?

1 Corinthians 11:27,28 Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup..

We want to be properly prepared so that we do not sin by receiving the body and blood of Jesus in an unworthy manner (failing to recognize that we receive the body and blood of Jesus in, with, and under the bread and wine in the Sacrament or failing to believe that it is “given and shed for us” for forgiveness).

361. What, however, is at the heart of being properly prepared to receive the Lord’s Supper?

Luke 22:19,20 He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Jesus said that the body and blood received in the Sacrament were given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. When we come to the Lord’s Table trusting that we receive the true body and blood of Jesus sacrificed on the cross for us for the forgiveness of sins, we are prepared.

363. Whom does God want us to invite to the Lord’s Supper?

1 John 1:8,9 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Matthew 18:15-18 (We are to withhold forgiveness from those who refuse to repent of their sins.)

Hebrews 10:26 If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left.

God wants us to invite to the Lord’s Supper only repentant sinners.

1 Corinthians 11:24,26,29 When he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.

Hebrews 5:13; 6:1 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God.

God wants us to invite to the Lord’s Supper only those who are instructed so that they know the meaning of Christ’s death and understand that Jesus’ body and blood are really present.

1 Corinthians 11:28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.

God wants us to invite to the Lord’s Supper only those who are able to examine themselves. (This is another reason individuals are instructed in God’s Word prior to receiving the Sacrament. For the same reason, a person who isn’t able to understand what is being received—for example, a person in a coma or someone suffering from an advanced stage of dementia—will not be given the Lord’s Supper.)

2 John 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them.

1 Corinthians 10:17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.

God wants us to give the Lord’s Supper only to those who are one with us in what we believe and teach.

364. Why will we want to receive Communion often?

Romans 7:19 I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.

Mark 9:24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

Isaiah 42:3 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice.

Hebrews 4:15,16 We do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

We struggle every day against our sinful flesh and need God’s assistance to overcome our weakness in faith.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 26:28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

Romans 4:7 Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.

God gives us the forgiveness of sins in the Lord’s Supper, providing us with freedom from guilt and strengthening our faith.

2 Corinthians 5:14,15 Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Colossians 2:6,7 Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Receiving God’s forgiving love in the Sacrament empowers us to live godly lives of thanksgiving.

1 Corinthians 11:26 Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

Hebrews 10:23-25 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

When we receive the Lord’s Supper and publicly proclaim the Lord’s death together with others, we are encouraging one another in our Christian faith.

A closer look

Closed or Close Communion
Receiving the Lord’s Supper is an act that expresses our faith. The apostle Paul also tells us that when we take the Lord’s Supper with others, we are declaring that we are all one in faith—we believe the same things.

1 Corinthians 10:17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.

We express this truth by practicing close or closed Communion. We might refer to it as “close” Communion because we only commune with those who are united with us in faith. We may also say that we practice “closed” Communion to indicate that the Lord’s Supper is closed to those who believe and teach differently. Whichever term is used, the practice of communing only with those who share a common faith is according to God’s command and testifies to our desire to be faithful to God’s Word.

Open Communion is practiced by many denominations today. In these churches, any Christians may come to the Lord’s Table, no matter what they believe and teach.

November 26-December 2: Christian questions for those preparing to receive the Lord's Supper

1. Do you believe that you are a sinner?

Yes, I believe that I am a sinner.

2. How do you know this?

I know this from the Ten Commandments, which I have not kept.

3. Are you sorry for your sins?

Yes, I am sorry that I have sinned against God.

4. What have you deserved from God because of your sins?

I deserve his wrath and displeasure, temporal death, and eternal damnation.

5. Are you convinced that you are saved?

Yes, such is my confidence.

6. In whom, then, do you trust?

I trust in my dear Lord Jesus Christ.

7. Who is Jesus Christ?

Jesus Christ is the Son of God, true God and man.

8. How many Gods are there?

There is only one God, but there are three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

9. What has Christ done for you that you trust in him?

He died for me and shed his blood for me on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.

10. Did the Father also die for you?

He did not; for the Father is God only, the Holy Spirit likewise. But the Son is true God and true man. He died for me and shed his blood for me.

11. How do you know this?

I know this from the holy gospel and from the words of the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

12. Which are those words?

Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (NIV).

Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying,“Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me” (NIV).

13. Do you believe, then, that the true body and blood of Christ are in the Sacrament?

Yes, I believe it.

14. What moves you to believe this?

I am moved to believe this by the words of Christ, "Take and eat; this is my body. . . . Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant" (NIV).

15. What does Christ want you to do when you eat his body and drink his blood in the Lord's Supper?

Christ wants me to remember and proclaim his death and the pouring out of his blood as he taught me: Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me" (NIV).

16. Why does Christ want you to remember and proclaim his death?

He wants me to do this so that (1) I learn to believe that no creature could make satisfaction for my sins, but only Christ, who is true God and man, could and did do that; (2) I learn to look with terror upon my sins and regard them as great indeed; (3) I find joy and comfort in Christ alone and believe that I have salvation through faith in him.

17. What moved him to die and make a complete payment for your sins?

He was moved to do this by his great love for his Father and for me and other sinners, as the Scriptures teach (John 14:31; Romans 5:8; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:2).

18. Finally, why do you desire to receive holy Communion?

I desire to do this so that I learn to believe that Christ out of great love died for my sins and that I also learn of him to love God and my neighbor.

19. What admonishes and moves you to receive holy Communion frequently?

The command and the promise of Christ my Lord admonishes and moves me. Also, the burden of sin that lies heavy upon me causes me to feel a hunger and thirst for Holy Communion.

20. But what can a person do if he or she is not aware of the burden of sin and does not feel hunger and thirst for Holy Communion?

To such a person no better advice can be given than that, in the first place, the person put his hand into his bosom and feel whether he still has flesh and blood, and that he by all means believes what the Scriptures say about this (Galatians 5:17,19-21; Isaiah 64:6; Romans 7:18).

Secondly, that he look around to see whether he is still in the world and keep in mind that there will be no lack of sin and trouble, as the Scriptures say (John 15:18-25; Matthew 24:9-13; Acts 14:22).

Thirdly, that person will certainly have the devil also about him. With his lying and murdering, day and night, the devil will let him have no peace. So the Scriptures picture the devil (John 8:44; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:10-12; 2 Timothy 2:26).

21. What can you do if you are sick and are unable to come to Holy Communion?

Then I can send for my pastor to pray with me and to give me Holy Communion privately.

22. When is the proper time to do this?

The time to do this is not only when death is at hand, but earlier before all physical and mental power is gone.

23. Why would you want to do this?

I would want to do this to receive the assurance through Holy Communion that my sins are forgiven and that salvation is mine.

Back to the basics: Keys and confession

October 1-7: The use of the keys

What is the use of the keys?
The use of the keys is that special power and right which Christ gave to his church on earth: to forgive the sins of penitent sinners but refuse forgiveness to the impenitent as long as they do not repent.

321. What are the keys?

Matthew 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

Matthew 18:18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

John 20:23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.

2 Corinthians 5:18-20 All this is from God, who reconciled us to him- self through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.

The keys are the special power and right given to Christians to forgive sins or to refuse to forgive sins. The power and right to forgive sins is the loosing key. It opens the door to heaven, declaring the person free from the guilt and punishment of sin. The power and right to refuse to forgive sins is the binding key. It locks the door of heaven, binding the person to the guilt and condemnation of his or her sin.

322. To whom has God given the special power and right to use these keys?

John 20:19,21-23 On the evening of that ﬁrst day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you! . . . As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

1 Peter 2:7,9 Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Christ has given to all Christians (the church) the special power and right to forgive sins or to refuse to forgive sins.

324. When does God want us to use the loosing key?

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out.

Psalm 51:17 My sacriﬁce, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.

Luke 15:10 I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Luke 18:13,14 The tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justiﬁed before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus commands us to forgive the sins of those who repent.

326. When does God want us to use the binding key?

1 John 1:8,10 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

Luke 18:10-14 (Because the Pharisee did not repent, he had no forgiveness.)

Matthew 18:15-18 (If someone refuses to repent, we are to treat that person like an unbeliever.)

John 20:23 If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.

Jesus commands us to refuse to forgive the sins of those who do not repent.

Connections

Some people don’t believe that their sins are serious or even that they have sinned. Others are driven to despair when they think of their sins. Jesus has given the keys to the church in order to address the spiritual needs of both kinds of people. He once told a parable that helps us better understand when to use the binding key and when to use the loosing key.

Luke 18:9-14

Jesus’ parable makes it obvious that those like the Pharisee should not be given assurance that their sin is forgiven. In the Pharisee’s case, pride was getting in the way. In what diﬀerent ways do you see pride showing itself in your life? Jesus’ parable also makes it obvious that those like the tax collector should hear the good news that their sin is forgiven. How might God lead you to have the same kind of humility the tax collector had?

Luther

God gave the key which binds so that we might not remain too conﬁdent in our sins, arrogant, barbarous, and without God; and the key which looses, that we should not despair in our sins. (LW 40:325ﬀ)

October 8-14: Public use of the keys

330. How does God guide Christian congregations as they use the keys publicly?

Matthew 18:20 Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

Ephesians 4:11,12 Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.

Titus 1:5 The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.

Acts 14:23 Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

1 Timothy 5:17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.

Matthew 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

God provides Christian congregations with leaders who are to faithfully guide the affairs of the congregation. Preaching and teaching God’s Word is one of the most important ways that they lead their congregations.

A closer look

Spiritual leaders

All Christians have the same rights and responsibilities, but God determined that spiritual leaders in the church (the office of the public ministry) will serve in the name of the members of the church to help Christians carry out their work. As it works in practical terms, Christians gathered together have the right to choose those who will help them grow and work together. Individual Christians may not assume positions of public leadership and ministry unless the other Christians ask or call them to do so. In addition, God gives Christians the freedom to implement specific roles of ministry that will meet their spiritual needs and then to call those who will work among them. For example, a congregation calls one or more pastors to take the lead in preaching and teaching God’s Word. A congregation may also call staff ministers, vicars, evangelists, teachers, and others to lead them in service to God. Consider what the early church did in Jerusalem as an example: “Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them” (Acts 6:3).

331. What qualifications has God established for those who serve in the public ministry?

Titus 1:5-9 Appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

1 Peter 5:2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.

Acts 20:28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.

334. How will the congregation with its called shepherd use the binding key?

Matthew 18:15-18 If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that “every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

1 Corinthians 5:4,5,13 When you are assembled and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord. God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”

1 Timothy 5:20 Those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning.

The congregation together with its pastor will use the binding key to exclude from the congregation those who are obviously impenitent—with the goal that they repent and receive forgiveness (church discipline).

335. How will the congregation with its called shepherd use the loosing key?

2 Corinthians 2:6-8,10 The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient. Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him. Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake.

They will use the loosing key to announce forgiveness to the person under church discipline who repents of his or her sin and will welcome the person back into the fellowship of the congregation.

Acts 26:18 Open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.

They will use the loosing key to announce forgiveness to those who were formerly unbelievers but have now repented of their sins.

Isaiah 40:1,2 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins.

1 Thessalonians 2:11,12 You know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

The congregation asks its pastor to use the loosing key to announce forgiveness publicly in its worship services, as well as individually to those offering a private confession.

336. How are we to view the public use of the keys by a congregation with its pastor?

1 Corinthians 4:1 This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed.

Matthew 18:15-20 (Jesus gave the church the authority to forgive the sins of the penitent and to refuse to forgive the sins of the impenitent.)

Luke 10:16 Whoever listens to you listens to me; whoever rejects you rejects me; but whoever rejects me rejects him who sent me.

The public use of the keys by a congregation with its called pastor is as valid and certain in heaven also, as if Christ, our dear Lord, dealt with us himself.

October 15-21: Confession and absolution—Part one

Introduction

An old Scottish proverb says, “Confession is good for the soul.” Many people believe that proverb is true in a general way. Admitting a wrong can bring a measure of inner peace and help restore relationships with others.

When God speaks about confession, he is not simply interested in restoring earthly relationships or giving emotional peace. Sin has the power to break our relationships with God. Confession is important for our souls.

337. The word confess means to admit a wrong. The first part of confession is that we admit we are sinners who deserve to be punished for our sin. Why do we confess our sins?

Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.

Psalm 32:3,5 When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin.

1 John 1:8,9 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Luke 18:13 The tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

James 5:16 Confess your sins to each other.

We confess our sins because God commands us to and because we long for forgiveness.

338. What do we acknowledge in our confessions to God?

Psalm 51:5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

Isaiah 64:6 All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

James 2:10 Whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.

Isaiah 59:12 Our offenses are many in your sight, and our sins testify against us. Our offenses are ever with us, and we acknowledge our iniquities.

Psalm 19:12 Who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults.

Romans 6:23 The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 7:24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?

We confess not only what we do but what we are. We were born with a sinful nature that continues to cause us to sin daily in thought, word, and deed. Our sins deserve eternal punishment.

339. How does God lead us to confess our sins?

Romans 3:20 No one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.

Romans 7:7 I would not have known what sin was had it not been for the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.”

Psalm 38:3,6,18 Because of your wrath there is no health in my body; there is no soundness in my bones because of my sin. I am bowed down and brought very low; all day long I go about mourning. I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.

God’s law makes us aware of our sins—each of us according to our place in life, whether we are a father, mother, son, daughter, employer, or employee. It points out if we have been disobedient, unfaithful, or lazy; if we have hurt anyone with our words or by our actions; if we have been dishonest, careless, wasteful, or committed any other wrongs. The law makes us aware of the punishment we deserve because of our sins.

340. Confession has a second part. When God has led us to confess our sins, what announcement does he then make?

2 Samuel 12:1-13 (When David confessed his sins, Nathan announced that God had forgiven his sins.)

Luke 7:48 Jesus said to [the sinful woman], “Your sins are forgiven.”

Matthew 9:2 [Jesus told a paralyzed man,] “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.”

Hebrews 8:12 I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.

October 22-28: Confession and absolution—Part two

341. When does the pastor regularly proclaim this comforting announcement?

Psalm 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin.

John 20:21-23 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

Our pastor regularly announces this gospel comfort in our worship services when he says, “As a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

342. When is it beneficial to confess our sins privately to our pastor?

Psalm 32:4 Day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.

Psalm 38:4 My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.

Psalm 51:3 I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.

We may privately confess our sins to the pastor at any time. We may seek the comforting gospel promise of forgiveness particularly when sins continue to trouble our consciences.

343. How should we receive the announcement of forgiveness from the pastor?

Matthew 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

We receive absolution—forgiveness—from the pastor as from God himself, not doubting but firmly believing that our sins are forgiven before God in heaven.

A closer look

Private confession

Although Luther focused on private confession to one’s spiritual shepherd, he didn’t mean to imply that confessing sins to a Christian spouse or parent or friend was less important or less biblical. Rather, he was attempting to help people properly understand what had been the practice for many years, namely, confessing sins to one’s priest.

Although it isn’t mandatory, going to our spiritual shepherd to confess sins and receive absolution can continue to be a blessing today. We are grateful for our pastor’s knowledge of Scripture and his ability to bring comfort through the words of God.

344. When does God want us to confess our sins to a fellow Christian?

James 5:16 Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other.

Matthew 5:23,24 If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

Luke 15:11-21 (The lost son came to realize the extent of his sin against his father and confessed his sin.)

345. How are we to receive the announcement of forgiveness from our fellow Christian?

Matthew 16:19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.

We receive absolution—the declaration of forgiveness—from a fellow Christian as from God himself, not doubting but firmly believing that our sins are forgiven before God in heaven.

Connections

We can come up with many reasons not to confess a sin. Our pride gets in the way. We imagine the bad things that might happen once the truth gets out. We are ashamed.

Our sinful flesh works hard to keep us from admitting our wrongs, but God commands us to confess—and not because he wants to hurt us! Rather, God longs to bring great blessings to us, as is evident in Jesus’ parable about a son and his father.

Luke 15:11-32

How did God bring the young man to his senses so that he was willing to confess his sins to his father? How does God bring us to our senses about sin and lead us to confess? The reaction of the father in the parable is a picture of how our heavenly Father deals with our sin. How is the love God shows us similar to the love shown by the father in the story?

Luther

As to the current practice of private confession, I am heartily in favor of it. . . .

It is useful, even necessary, and I would not have it abolished. Indeed, I rejoice that it exists in the church of Christ for it is a cure without equal for distressed consciences. (LW 36:30ff)

From Depths of Woe I Cry to You (Stanzas 1,2)

From depths of woe I cry to you;

Lord, hear me, I implore you.

Bend down your gracious ear to me;

My prayer let come before you.

If you kept record of my sin

And held against me what I’ve been,

How could I stand before you?

Your love and grace alone avail

To blot out my transgression.

The best and holiest deeds must fail

To break sin’s dread oppression.

Before you none can boasting stand,

But all must fear your strict demand

And live alone by mercy.