Smalcald Articles: Part 3, Article 1: Sin

If we are not dead in our sins, Christ died in vain. The corruption of humankind is so deep that our only hope is a full resurrection (Romans 6:1-4). The Roman Church in Luther’s day taught that individuals had the power to observe God’s commands and love Him, without the enabling power of the Holy Spirit. Yet, all that the human heart can give is more evil deeds (pride, despair, lying, abusing God’s name, disobedience, murder, stealing, and deception). Luther brings us back to the basics, revealing the real purpose for which Christ came: to die for sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). Rev. Joshua Conradt, pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Waterford, WI, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study original sin. 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. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected].