The Teacher's Approach to the Doctrine of Confession

Abstract

In this essay, Dr. Siegbert W. Becker explores how Lutheran educators should approach the doctrine of confession and absolution in the classroom. He clarifies the Lutheran distinction from Roman Catholic penance, emphasizing that forgiveness is not earned through contrition, enumeration of sins, or satisfaction, but is a free gift received by faith. Becker stresses that confession is not merely a liturgical act but a daily response to the Law and Gospel. Teachers must help students recognize their sin through the Law and then comfort them with the Gospel’s assurance of forgiveness. He highlights the importance of objective justification—God’s declaration of forgiveness for all humanity through Christ’s resurrection—and urges teachers to proclaim absolution clearly and unconditionally. Becker warns against conditional language (“if you are good,” “if you are sorry”) and calls for a faithful, pastoral approach that instills confidence in God’s grace. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)