Good works are not necessary for salvation, yet good works are necessary. Good works flow from faith in the good work of Christ’s cross and benefit our neighbors. The heartbeat of the Christian life is the forgiveness of sins, and by the Holy Spirit’s work, fruit is bore as they are connected to Christ the vine. When we speak of love in this article it is a synonym for good works. Love for others as He first loved us (I John 4:19). “Come, follow Me, the Savior spake, “All in My way abiding; Deny yourselves, the world forsake, Obey My call and guiding. O bear the cross, whate’er betide, take My example for your guide." LSB #688 st. 1

Rev. Dr. Leonard Payton, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Forest Park, IL joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the Apology of the Augsburg Confession concerning good works.

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

Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations.