Sola Devotions

The Small Catechism – part 13

Scripture Text: Ephesians 4:11–16

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Ephesians 4:11–16

From the Confessions: The Small Catechism 

Make it very plain to them the great harm they are causing by refusing to support the training of children to be pastors, preachers, clerks, etc., and that God will punish them terribly for this neglect. For such preaching is needed, as parents and magistrates are now sinning unspeakably in this respect. The devil has an evil intent here.

Pulling It Together: It is clear Luther consider the catechism part of the wider education of children. Further, he believed the catechism could instill in them a heart to serve both church and community. The catechism then must be a lifelong discipline. It is not something that happens at an early age and is put behind us and forgotten. It is not a graduation but rather, the beginning of a life of virtuous service.

Prayer: Make me a strong supporter of your body, Lord. Amen.

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The General Epistles offers a series of 12 Bible studies based on Hebrews, James, I & II Peter, I, II, & III John, and Jude. The geographical locations of Biblical characters can symbolically refer to places we find ourselves with respect to our faith. As we become more acquainted with our spiritual geography, we will better discern where God would have us go or what changes we need to make in order to serve him better.

Author

Mark Ryman

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.