From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
1539 treatise by Martin Luther
On the Councils and the Church (1539) is a treatise on
ecclesiology written by Protestant reformer
Martin Luther late in life.
On the Councils and the Church is best known for its teaching, in the third part of the book, of the "seven
marks of the Church", of which the
One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church can be recognized. These marks are:
- holy word of God, effective
means of grace
- holy sacrament of baptism,
regeneration
- holy sacrament of the altar
- office of keys exercised publicly, although not the office of
pope. Includes also private
confession as a means of grace.
- it consecrates or calls ministers, or has offices, that is, to administer, bishops, pastors, and preachers.
- prayer, public praise, and thanksgiving to God, the liturgy
- holy possession of the sacred cross, suffering and carrying the cross as followers of Christ.
English translation
Luther's Works: vol. 41
See also
External links