Sola Devotions

Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions

Scripture Text: John 18:37–38

• Original image, Andrew Shiva  • Index

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John 18:37–38

From the Confessions: The Small Catechism 

The First Article

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

What does this mean?

I believe that God has created me and all that exists, that he has given me and still preserves my body and soul, my eyes and ears, my reason and all my senses, together with food and clothing, home and family, and all my property. Every day he provides abundantly for all the needs of my life. He protects me from all danger and guards and keeps me from every evil. He does this purely out of fatherly and divine goodness and mercy, though I do not deserve it. Therefore I ought to thank, praise, serve, and obey him. This is most certainly true!

Pulling It Together: “This is most certainly true!” declares Luther.

“What is truth?” responds Pilate. The Truth was standing right in front of him, and he dismissed him as though truth were too difficult to nail down (as it were). The popular idea is that everyone has a particular point of view, and thus, truth is relative and subjective. In that case, each one’s “truth” is at most, maybe right, and very likely, not true at all. Your version may be on the side of cultural correctness—the current political or religious indignation—or simply make you feel better in the moment.

Winston Churchill said, “The truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it; ignorance may deride it; but in the end, there it is.” So, “what is truth?” God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). Criticize him; dismiss, or even kill him. Yet, there he stands before you.

Prayer: I believe, Lord; help my unbelief. Amen.

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