The Large Catechism – part 13
Scripture Text: 1 John 3:23–24
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From the Word: 23 And this is his commandment: that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another as he commanded us. 24 And the one who keeps his commandments abides in him, and he in him. By this, we know that he abides in us: by the Spirit whom he has given us. (1 John 3:23–24)
From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, Introduction
For this reason alone, you should gladly read, recite, meditate upon, and practice the Catechism, even if by doing so, you received no other benefit and reward than driving away the devil and evil thoughts. For he cannot endure hearing God’s Word, which is not like some silly babble, like the one about Dietrich of Berne. But as St. Paul says, it is the power of God (Rom 1:16) — indeed, the power of God that gives the devil burning pain, but strengthens, comforts, and helps us beyond measure.
Pulling It Together: When we work in the Catechism, we are essentially learning one thing in different ways. And what is it that the Catechism, in all its parts, teaches us but the greatest commandment which is the sum of all of God’s commandments? We are to believe in Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, and because we do, to love our neighbors. With this great command comes a promise: the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
The apostle’s teaching shows us the whole Trinity, the one God whom we are to fear, love, and trust above all things. The one who believes in him, hopes in the gospel and all its promises, and is greatly strengthened and comforted.
Prayer: Help me to know and believe your Word, Lord, so that your power may be at work in me. Amen.
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The Ten Commandments workbook is a ten-week Confirmation unit that includes one session on each of the Commandments. The Scripture focus in the Ten Commandment series is on Moses and the Exodus Cycle, with Bible Study lessons taken primarily from the Pentateuch.
• Student Workbook • Leader's Guide
Author
Rev. Mark E. Ryman serves as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Previously, Pastor Ryman has served other congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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