The definition of the Gospel.
The definition of the Gospel.
§ 130. On the basis of all the things that have been said about the Gospel, we gather the following definition of it. The Gospel is the second part of the heavenly teaching about man’s salvation and the more noble part. It is contradistinct from the Law and is unknown to mankind by nature. Rather, it comes to us from the secret bosom of the heavenly Father through His Son and has been proclaimed in the church at all times of the world. In it all the free forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and eternal life are offered and presented to those who truly believe in Christ the Mediator, to the salvation of mankind and to the glory of God.
To God, the eternal Father, who has spoken to us in these latter days of the world through His Son and who has established the same as our Mediator and Suppliant, be praise, honor, and glory forever. With the word of His Gospel may He effectively lift up and sustain our hearts in all temptations and in the very hour of our death. Amen.
1 SA Preface 8–9 (cf. Concordia, 261).