An Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism · Martin Luther
OF GOD THE SON, OR REDEMPTION.
Article II. and its Explanation may be analyzed as follows:-- 1. _His Names_: Jesus, Christ. 2. _His Person and Nature_: True God and True Man. 3. _His Life_: His Humiliation and His Exaltation. 1. _Whom He has redeemed._ 2. _From what He has redeemed me._ 3. _How He has redeemed me._ 4. _Why He has redeemed me._ JESUS. This was our Lord's personal name, given to Him by the angel. [Matt. 1:21] It signified, "He shall save." CHRIST. This was His official name, corresponding with the Old Testament name "Messiah," [John 1:41] and signified "The Anointed One." God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit for the work of redemption, [Luke 4:18-21] to a threefold office:-- 1. As Prophet, to teach us God's will. [Acts 3:22] 2. As Priest, to atone for our sins, and to intercede for us. [Heb. 4:14] 3. As King, [Matt. 21:5, Rev. 17:14] to reign over us in the Kingdom of Power, of Grace, and of Glory.
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