May 29, 2015

“All scripture is inspired by G*d and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of G*d may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“There are two kinds of Christian doctrine, not two kinds of Christian truth, one dogmatic the other moral, but one holy truth, revealed by the Spirit, who is equally the Spirit of truth and the Holy Spirit, and deposited in Scripture, which, according to its whole contents, both human and Divine…” Ernest Sartorius (1797 – 1859) “For All The Saints”, volume II (p. 23-24)

All scripture is inspired by G*d and therefore forms the norm of our teachings and the expression of our worship in the church. When Martin Luther had a problem with the teachings of the church, he turned to scripture to help form his understanding. We do the same. When we are trying to determine a position on a difficult matter, like capital punishment, or social justice, we first turn to scripture before we seek a position on the matter. Of course, not only do we turn to scripture for a deeper understanding, but we look to the revelation of G*d through Jesus Christ, and pray for the presence of the Holy Spirit as we discern the matters of church and society.

Soon we will celebrate “Trinity Sunday” in the church: our attempts to understand our G*d of mystery in three expressions, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The life of faith is not always a clear cut understanding of what to do and how to do it. But if we continue to look to scripture to inform our discussions and contemplations, we will continue to see the truth of G*d’s will for us and for the world as clearly as is humanly possible.

Pastor Dave