Noble and Necessary Chastisement
The Lord disciplines the one He loves, and chastises every son whom He receives.
HEBREWS 12:6
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Noble and Necessary Chastisement
With supreme benefit He chastises His own with much greater love than earthly fathers. Thus you see that the Lord's chastening is distinguished by many features, namely, that it is paternal, that it is applied in moderation, and that it is for the purpose of implementing the remission of sins, because it leads a man to call upon God. "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you" (Psalm 50:15). He speaks thus so that we may more easily forgive others. We groan and sigh to God always, and thus spirit, faith, and love grow. Thus the forgiveness of sins follows and is put into effect. Thus you see how noble and necessary God's chastening is. For through the Word the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed, through faith it is received, and through the cross it is put into effect.
From Lectures on Isaiah (Luther's Works 16:215)
HEBREWS 12:6
+
Noble and Necessary Chastisement
With supreme benefit He chastises His own with much greater love than earthly fathers. Thus you see that the Lord's chastening is distinguished by many features, namely, that it is paternal, that it is applied in moderation, and that it is for the purpose of implementing the remission of sins, because it leads a man to call upon God. "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you" (Psalm 50:15). He speaks thus so that we may more easily forgive others. We groan and sigh to God always, and thus spirit, faith, and love grow. Thus the forgiveness of sins follows and is put into effect. Thus you see how noble and necessary God's chastening is. For through the Word the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed, through faith it is received, and through the cross it is put into effect.
From Lectures on Isaiah (Luther's Works 16:215)
Posted in Daily Devotions
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