Thesis 2 flows from Thesis 1 and draws it out to make a point that separates the theology of glory from the theology of the cross in Christian faith and practice. What is Luther getting at here? And is this still an issue today in Christianity?

	

What place do self-induced works (or good works flowing from conscience) have in the Christian’s righteousness before God?

		

		

		

		

		

	

What does Leif Grane mean when he says “What the law requires is freedom from the law”?

		

		

		

		

		

	

In thesis 3, Luther says that “the works of man always seem attractive and good” but in reality are “likely to be mortal sins”? What is it that makes a person’s good works so dangerous?

		

		

		

		

	

How does the one under grace think about his or her own goodness and good works?

		

		

		

		

		

	

Contrast now the works of God. Do they appear good to the casual observer?

		

		

		

		

		

	

What does God accomplish through his unattractive works? 

		

		

		

		

	

Pr. David A. Kind

	

December 18, 2002