Theses 3

Yet it does not mean solely inner repentance; such inner repentance is worthless unless it produces various outward mortifications of the flesh.

Here it is not the inner repentance of just thinking and feeling but a full subjection of the flesh. Mortification means the subjection and denial of bodily passions and appetites by abstinence or self-inflicted pain or discomfort. Luther is telling us we need outward action to prove our true Repentance.

Luther is also telling us we need to place our body in subjection to ourselves. This means taming the Body and at times it can mean beating your body into submission. This can cause wounds of shame and humiliation. This may even be the ascetic Luther coming out. You need to make sure that you control your body and do not allow it to control you.

Inner repentance of thought or feeling guilt is meaningless unless you actually have outward action. This is the tax collector beating himself as he prays in Luke 18:13. These outward actions also are connected back to John the Baptist's request of the Pharisees and Sadducees, "Bear fruit in keeping with repentance."

Luther really wants to remind people this is not the sacrament of penance or satisfaction but it is in ward hatred of self and outward signs of such hatred subjecting your body to pain and shame. This is further the life of Repentance. Thank you.

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