The Reformers understood that punishment is a necessary aspect of repentance. Punishment, they believed, is one when feels contrition over sin. The Roman Church at the time was determined to prescribe certain punishments to pay for certain sins. These punishments, according to the Church, could be satisfied by works performed in this life and in purgatory. However, punishment does not come because of a particular sin (take Job for example). Punishment is when contrition is felt, as we understand the weight of our sin and God’s wrath. Troubles are not meant to prompt a desperate search to determine our sins but rather are intended to bring us back to God as our strength (2 Cor. 12:9). Christ has had the final victory (1 Cor. 15:57) and our works are meant for His glory.
Rev. Jonathan Buescher, pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Mt. Pulaski, IL, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to confess the truth on the topic of Confession and Satisfaction.
Find your copy of the Book of Concord – Concordia Reader’s Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org.
Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations.
Do you have questions about this program? Email Andrew.Bates@kfuo.org or call at (314) 996-1519.
