Lutheran Lens Commentary: Matthew 6:9-13 (The Lord's Prayer)

Lutheran Lens Reading of Matthew 6:9-13 (The Lord's Prayer)

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage, the Lord's Prayer, as a profound intersection of Law and Gospel. The invocation of 'Our Father' reveals our baptismal identity and relationship with God, yet it simultaneously points to our inadequacy in fulfilling His will without grace. Each petition exposes a deep human need that the Law reveals — our lack of holiness, daily dependence, and need for forgiveness. Yet, in these petitions, the Gospel shines as God promises to provide what we ask through Christ, particularly the forgiveness of sins which is central to our justification by faith alone.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word 'epiousios,' translated as 'daily' in 'daily bread,' carries a semantic range that suggests 'necessary for existence.' This aligns with our theology of reliance on God's providence. The language of 'forgive us our debts' points to a forensic understanding of sin and forgiveness, vital for our doctrine of justification. The imperative mood in 'hallowed be your name' underscores the Law's demand, while the passive voice in 'your will be done' highlights God's action in the Gospel.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that may emphasize the sovereignty of God primarily in a predestinarian framework, we emphasize God's fatherly care in the context of justification by faith. Our reading also diverges from Roman Catholic traditions by emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ's work without additional penitential acts. This distinction is crucial as it upholds the theology of the cross over any theology of glory.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should emphasize that through the Lord's Prayer, we are drawn into a life of reliance on God’s grace, as we acknowledge our inability to fulfill the Law apart from Christ. The congregation should hear the comforting assurance that in Christ, God provides for all our needs, including the forgiveness of sins. We must emphasize that this prayer is not a checklist of demands but a means through which God shapes us into the likeness of Christ. The Lord's Prayer is a gift given to us, not a burden imposed upon us — it aligns us with God's will and promises.

Cross-References: Romans 8:15 (Abba, Father); 1 John 1:9 (forgiveness of sins); Philippians 4:19 (God's provision); Romans 7:18-25 (struggle with sin); Galatians 5:16-25 (life in the Spirit)

Doctrinal Connections: justification by faith alone; baptismal identity; the theology of the cross; simul justus et peccator; means of grace