Since we share in Christ and all His benefits through faith alone, where does this faith come from?
From the Holy Spirit, who works faith in our hearts by the preaching of the gospel and confirms it by the use of the sacraments.
What are the sacraments?
The sacraments are holy, visible signs and seals appointed by God. Through their use He more fully declares and seals to us the promise of the gospel: that He freely grants us forgiveness of sins and eternal life for the sake of Christ’s one sacrifice accomplished on the cross.
Scripture references
Do both the word and the sacraments direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as the only ground of our salvation?
Yes, indeed, for the Holy Spirit teaches us in the gospel and assures us by the sacraments that the whole of our salvation depends upon that one sacrifice of Christ which He offered for us on the cross.
Scripture references
How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the new covenant?
Two: namely, holy baptism and the Lord’s Supper.