“Ex opere operato”
I am reading through the Lutheran Confessions (Book of Concord) and have come across the Latin term "ex opere operato." I looked it up and it apparently means "from the work worked" which doesn't make sense to me when I read it in context in the Confessions. Can you tell me what English phrase I can translate this to that is more meaningful?
“By the performance of the action” may get the idea across clearer. That phrase conveys the Roman Catholic teaching that the sacraments bring blessings to people simply because they are performed. (Think of masses being performed for the dead.)
With scriptural support, the Book of Concord condemns that teaching and emphasizes that faith is necessary to enjoy the administration of a sacrament.
God bless your reading of the Lutheran Confessions!