The Absolution
As God's answer to Confession, this is pronounced by God's own
messenger. The messenger must have full credentials; i.e. a Deacon
must not say the Absolution.
Both here and in the Confession, the Titles and Attributes of God
should be noticed. His power and mercy were made the grounds of our
appeal to Him. His mercy and authority are now made the grounds of His
answer. The fulness of the declaration of them gives emphasis to the
declaration of pardon which follows.
We find four parts in the Confession and the same parts in the
Absolution, viz.
1. The Title and Attributes of God.
2. The substantial part, i.e. Confession or Absolution.
3. The prayer which is founded thereon.
4. The appeal through our Lord.