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The Luther Rose,
also known as the Luther Seal, is easily the most recognized symbol
for Lutheranism, and for good reason. Martin Luther personally oversaw the
creation of this symbol. It provides a beautiful summary of his faith, a faith
that is common to all Christians, of every place and every time. Here is how
Luther explained the meaning of his seal:
"Grace and peace from the Lord. As you desire to know whether my painted
seal, which you sent to me, has hit the mark, I shall answer most amiably and
tell you my original thoughts and reason about why my seal is a symbol of my
theology. The first should be a black cross in a heart, which retains its
natural color, so that I myself would be reminded that faith in the Crucified
saves us. For one who believes from the heart will be justified" (Rom. 10:10).
Although it is indeed a black cross, which mortifies and which should also
cause pain, it leaves the heart in its natural color. It does not corrupt
nature, that is, it does not kill but keeps alive. "The just shall live by
faith" (Rom. 1:17) but by faith in the crucified. Such a heart should stand in
the middle of a white rose, to show that faith gives joy, comfort, and peace. In
other words, it places the believer into a white, joyous rose, for this faith
does not give peace and joy like the world gives (John 14:27).
That is why the rose should be white and not red, for white is the color
of the spirits and the angels (cf. Matthew 28:3; John 20:12). Such a rose should
stand in a sky-blue field, symbolizing that such joy in spirit and faith is a
beginning of the heavenly future joy, which begins already, but is grasped in
hope, not yet revealed. And around this field is a golden ring, symbolizing that
such blessedness in Heaven lasts forever and has no end. Such blessedness is
exquisite, beyond all joy and goods, just as gold is the most valuable, most
precious and best metal. This is my compendium theologies [summary of theology].
I have wanted to show it to you in good friendship, hoping for your
appreciation. May Christ, our beloved Lord, be with your spirit until the life
hereafter. Amen." *
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