Concerning the Mass – part 44
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Hebrews 9:13–14
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
Since the Old Testament sacrifices did not merit reconciliation — unless by analogy — but pointed to the coming sacrifice, it follows that Christ is the only valid sacrifice for the sins of others. Therefore, no sacrifice is left in the New Testament to be applied for the sins of others, except the one sacrifice of Christ upon the cross.
Pulling It Together
The services of the Old Testament were a symbol or a picture of what was to come. Their use was to cleanse the flesh, the natural person, from sin. These services required constant repetition because of constant sin. The New Testament services of the Church remember what our great High Priest has accomplished through his sacrifice on the cross. His is the perfect service that requires no repetition. His blood cleanses conscience and spirit, not merely the flesh, for all who have faith in him.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for granting me the faith to trust in you. Amen
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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