In
the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
You have often heard me say that
Christian life consists in these two things: in faith and then in
good works; that after coming to faith a person should be pious and
lead a visibly good life. Most depends on the first part, on faith,
and the second is not at all equal to the first in importance,
although the world thinks more and better of it than it does of
faith, preferring good works to faith (What
Luther Says,
para. 645).
This is how Luther briefly describes the relationship between the two
parts of the Christian life. Faith and good works. Faith is the chief
thing, but good works must follow. However, faith is always the
deciding point, the hook upon which the Christian life hangs.
Your salvation rests on Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice, and
not on your own merit or worthiness. While you were yet sinners,
Christ died for you. In the fullness of time, the Father of all
mercies sent His only-begotten Son into the flesh to bear your sins
and be your savior. The Son of God, born of the Virgin Mary, has
taken away the condemnation of your sins and guilt. His blood has
washed you clean and made you pure and holy.
