The twofold use of the law in the Gospel a sermon by Martin Luther.

The text that forms the basis of the sermon is Paul's second epistle to the Corinthian

Church, chapter 3 verses 4 through 11, we read,

such as the confidence that we have through Christ toward God,

not that we are sufficient in ourselves

to claim anything as coming from us,

but our sufficiency is from God who has made us

competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the spirit.

For the letter kills, but the spirit gives life.

Now if the Ministry of Death carved in letters on stone came with such glory that the Israelites

could not gaze at Moses' face because of its glory, which was being brought to an end, will not the ministry

of the Spirit have even more glory?

For if there was glory in the Ministry of condemnation, the Ministry of righteousness mustnation, the Ministry of Righteousness must far exceeded in glory.

Indeed in this case, what once had glory has come to no glory at all because of the glory

that surpasses it.

For if what was being brought to an end came with glory,

much more will what is permanent have glory.

This epistle sounds altogether strange and wonderful to individuals who are

unaccustomed to scripture language, particularly to that of Paul. To the

inexperienced ear and heart, this is not intelligible.

In Popdom thus far it has remained quite unapprehended,

although the reading of these words has been practiced.

...