Every congregation possesses the office of the keys, that is, the power to retain and forgive sins. This authority was not provided for the sake of power as the world sees it, but as a spiritual power to provide the full gifts of Christ to repentant sinners. We believe that when the called ministers of Christ deal with us by His divine command, when they forgive and retain sins, it is as certain as it would be from God Himself. We receive this Word with joyful hearts as He works through His people to provide assurance of His salvation.

Rev. Dr. Jason Lane, Associate Professor of Historical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to continue our study of the Power and Primacy of the Pope.

To learn more about Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, visit csl.edu.

Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org.

Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org.