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The following reading from the CONCORDIA edition of the Book of Concord is for the Epistle, 1 John 3:16-24 for the Easter 4, series B, April 29, 2012. It is from Solid Declaration, Article II, pages 527-528. The Holy Spirit that abides in His Church moves us to recognize God's loves for us in the gift of Christ's reconciliation and moves us to love one another. Click here for the reading formatted for the back of a standard CPH bulletin. Pastor Doug May
In Dr. Luther's Large Catechism this is written: I am brought into (this little holy group and congregation of pure saints) by the Holy Spirit through having heard and continuing to hear God's Word. In the past we were altogether of the devil, knowing nothing about God and about Christ. So, until the Last Day, the Holy Spirit abides with the holy congregation or Christendom. Through this congregation He brings us to Christ and He teaches and preaches to us the Word. By the Word He works and promotes sanctification, causing this congregation daily to grow and to become strong in the faith and its fruit, which He produces. The Catechism does not mention our cooperation. It credits everything to the Holy Spirit who, through the preaching office, brings us into the Christian Church, sanctifies us, and causes us to grow in faith and good works. Even in this life the regenerate advance to the point that they want to do what is good and love it, and even do good and grow in it. Still, this is not of our will and ability, but of the Holy Spirit. Paul says that the Spirit works such willing and doing (Philippians 2:13). In Ephesians 2:10 he credits this work to God alone, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (paragraphs 36-39)
These are excerpts from the Book of Concord.
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