Day by Day with Martin Luther

Read: Ezra 8:21-9:15 1st Corinthians 5:1-13 Proverbs 21:1-2

“Noble and Necessary Chastisement”

“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”
[Hebrews 12:6]

With supreme benefit He chastises His own with much greater love than earthly fathers. Thus you see that the Lord’s chastening is distinguished by many features, namely, that it is paternal, that it is applied in moderation, and that it is for the purpose of implementing the remission of sins, because it leads a man to call upon God. “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you” {Psalm 50:15}. He speaks thus, so that we might more easily forgive others. We groan and sigh to God always, and thus spirit, faith, and love grow. Thus, you see how noble and necessary God’s chastening is for us. For through the Word the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed, through faith it is received, and through the cross it is put into effect.