The gospel requires those who preside over churches to “exercise jurisdiction”–that is, excommunicate those who are guilty of notorious crimes and absolve those who repent. The bishops have tyrannically reserved this right for themselves alone, and have employed it for gain. But again, this belongs to the proper work of the gospel, which by divine right belongs to all who preside over the churches in the gospel.
Rev. Dr. Kirk Clayton, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Mascoutah, Illinois, joins host Rev. Sean Smith to discuss The Power and Primacy of the Pope: The Power and Jurisdiction of Bishops (paragraphs 74-end) in the Book of Concord.
Pull out your Book of Concord and join a lively discussion of the Lutheran Confessions. Each week, host Rev. Sean Smith and a roundtable groups of guests take an in-depth look at passages from parts of the Book of Concord so you can have a deeper understanding of your Lutheran faith.
Do you have questions about this program? Email Andrew.Bates@kfuo.org or call at (314) 996-1519.
