Smalcald Articles

These articles, named after a town in Germany, were written by Luther in response to a Council called by the pope (to be held at Mantua, but which did not convene until 1545 at Trent) as a concise summary of Protestant theology and issues of faith for which no concessions could be made. It was written at a time of illness for Luther, and has almost the character of a last testament of faith. In 1537 at Smalcald (or Schmalkald), princes and theologians assembled to affirm and subscribe the articles. It is written in three parts:

1. "Lofty articles of the divine majesty"
2. Articles on the work of Christ and redemption
3. 
   Miscellaneous matters (sacraments, ordination, clerical marriage, monastic vows, etc.)

The last parts dealt with issues and doctrines much in dispute, especially Part 2 which encapsulated the non-negotiable teaching of justification by faith in Christ. The articles were published by Luther in 1538 and became part of the Book of Concord (1580).

NOTE: This title is included in the Version 5 and OneTouch Libraries.