Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Daniel 11:36–37
Regardless of wording, Daniel paints the “king” whom Melancthon infers to be an antichrist as one who exalts himself above all people, all gods, all law.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Matthew 19:6–8
Contrast the hardness of humans with the mercy of God. Humans invent divorce and laws like celibacy—even forcing divorces upon those already married so that human regulation will be kept, even when it is in open defiance of God’s command.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Galatians 5:19–21
There are those who are able to truly and consistently practice control of the flesh. But if they are not able, if they have not been empowered with restraint by God, then they should marry. This is God’s plan for us—with good reason.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 10:12–13
Do you imagine that you are able to be virtuous in your own strength? Of course, we must rely on God’s strength, not our own. Yet we are not to rely upon his strength alone. We must also depend upon his plan.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: James 1:17
God has already provided the answer; and it is a splendid solution. So, if anything, people should pray for common sense. God has blessed men and women with the sweet fellowship of marriage and the comfort and peace of the marriage bed.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 7:6–7
Paul does not say here that he wishes all were celibate. Rather, he speaks of his gifting from God’s Spirit to keep himself under control. He would prefer that all were like himself, self-controlled in matters of sexual appetite.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 7:3–5
Since the fall of Adam, the temptation to sin in general has been difficult (Rom 7:19) but the struggle with lust may be at the top of the list. Self-control is a hard habit to master.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 7:1–2
Evidently, the notion of celibacy had been raised with Paul by the Corinthians. The apostle gives a conditional response. There are some who have received special graces from God, so that they may be celibate.
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Genesis 1:27–28
Natural love existed between men and women even when their nature was still pure. God told Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply,” which of course, happens in but one manner.
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