How about that? In the Augsburg Confession, one of the writings that makes up the Formula of Concord - the confessional writings of the Evangelical Lutheran Church - article five is about The Ministry. Here are parts one through three (From "Concordia - the Lutheran Confessions" published by Concordia Publishing House).
1) So that we may obtain this faith (referenced in Article 4) the ministry of teaching the Gospel and administering the Sacraments was instituted. 2) Through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Spirit is given (John 20:22), He works faith, when and where it pleases God (John 3:8), in those who hear the good news 3) that God justifies those who believe that they are received into grace for Christ's sake. This happens not through our own merits, but for Christ's sake.
As in worship, so it is in salvation - God is the prinicple actor. He takes center stage. He is the one who works, when and where He pleases, to bring His gifts of forgiveness of sins, power for daily living and the hope of everlasting life to all who embrace Him as Savior and Lord. May we never succumb to the ego-centric ways of some church and push God off of the stage. "Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful people. Kindle in us the fire of Your love. Alleluia!"
