Traditions and ceremonies are necessary— not necessary for salvation, but for good order. Nobody can institute them with the claim that they justify outside of faith in Christ. At the same time, to deny ceremonies that do not contradict the Word can be equally problematic. Human works could easily be perceived as the way to receive a perfect and spiritual life. Yet, it is only by the Gospel that one’s heart is changed and by the Holy Spirit that we live a holy life.

Rev. Mark Bestul, pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church in Elgin, IL, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to continue our study of Human Traditions.

Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org.