Explore how the Formula of Concord guides the teachings and practices at Grace Lutheran Church today.
Article II: Free Will
Core Teaching: Humans are spiritually dead in sin and cannot choose God without divine grace.
Today’s Relevance:
Anchors the Lutheran emphasis on sola gratia (grace alone).
Resists modern Pelagian tendencies that overemphasize personal decision in salvation.
Influences pastoral care, emphasizing comfort over moral pressure.
Article III: Righteousness of Faith
Core Teaching: Justification comes through faith alone, not works or merit.
Today’s Relevance:
Remains central to Lutheran preaching, teaching, and liturgy.
Frames sermons, confessions, and absolutions in terms of God’s promises, not human achievement.
Differentiates Lutheranism from both Roman Catholic and Reformed perspectives on justification.
Article VII: The Lord’s Supper
Core Teaching: Christ’s true body and blood are truly present in, with, and under the bread and wine.
Today’s Relevance:
Preserved in liturgical practice and catechesis.
Reinforces Lutheran sacramental theology against symbolic or transubstantial views.
Inspires reverence and pastoral reflection on how Christ meets His people tangibly.
Article XI: Election
Core Teaching: God’s predestination is to comfort believers, not confuse or condemn.
Today’s Relevance:
Used to reassure Christians of God’s faithfulness.
Counters fatalistic or overly speculative views on divine foreknowledge.
Encourages trust rather than theological anxiety.
Article VI: The Third Use of the Law
Core Teaching: The Law guides Christian living for the regenerate.
Today’s Relevance:
Crucial in forming Christian ethics and discipleship.
Helps believers respond to grace with obedience—not to earn salvation, but to live faithfully.
Shapes catechism instruction and devotional life.
These articles don’t just stand as historical affirmations—they actively shape worship, ministry, teaching, and the personal faith journey of Lutheran communities today.