An Online Study
What are the Lutheran Confessions Part 1, The Augsburg Confession Articles 1-14
Pastor Klemme introduces the Augsburg Confession as a summary of what Lutherans believe, teach, and confess from Scripture. It reviews Articles I–X, emphasizing the Trinity, humanity’s corruption by original sin, Christ’s true divinity and humanity, justification by grace through faith, the ministry and Means of Grace, good works as fruits of faith, the Church gathered around Word and Sacrament, the validity of the Sacraments despite sinful ministers, Baptism as God’s saving gift, and Christ’s real presence in the Lord’s Supper.
An Introduction to What Are the Lutheran Confessions?
Pastor Klemme introduces a series on the Book of Concord, arguing that many Lutherans need ongoing instruction in their confessions and catechism. He cites District President Johnson’s concern that confusion about the pastoral office, divine call, Communion, and Baptism contributes to congregational conflict. Klemme describes the confessions as a faithful explanation of Scripture, though not inspired Scripture themselves. He plans to explore the Divine Service and argues that teaching Lutheran doctrine and sharing Christ’s gifts belong together.