Conclusion

[1] These are the chief articles that seem to be in controversy. We could have mentioned more abuses. But here we have set forth only the chief points in order to avoid making this Confession too long. From these chief points the rest may be easily judged. [2] There have been, for example, great complaints about indulgences, pilgrimages, and the abuse of excommunication. Our parishes have been troubled in many ways by dealers in indulgences. There were endless arguments between the pastors and the monks about who has the right in parishes to hear confessions, do funerals, give sermons on extraordinary occasions, and innumerable other things. [3] We have passed over such issues so that the chief points in this matter, briefly set forth, might be more easily understood. [4] Nothing has been said or brought up for the rebuke of anyone. [5] We have mentioned only those things we thought it was necessary to talk about so that it would be understood that in doctrine and ceremonies we have received nothing contrary to Scripture or the Church universal. It is clear that we have been very careful to make sure no new ungodly doctrine creeps into our churches.

[6] We present these articles in accordance with Your Imperial Majesty’s edict, in order to show our Confession and let people see a summary of our teachers’ doctrine. [7] If there is anything that anyone might desire in this Confession, we are ready, God willing, to present more thorough information according to the Scriptures.

[8] Your Imperial Majesty’s faithful subjects:
[9] John, Duke of Saxony, Elector.
[10] George, Margrave of Brandenburg.
[11] Ernest, Duke of Lüneberg.
[12] Philip, Landgrave of Hesse.
[13] John Frederick, Duke of Saxony.
[14] Francis, Duke of Lüneberg.
[15] Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt.
[16] Senate and Magistracy of Nürnberg.
[17] Senate of Reutlingen.