Today as a large portion of individuals are focused on whether to dress up and go out and get candy or not, many don’t realize or even know what happened on October 31, 1517. It was Reformation Day! While much of the world focuses on the traditions of this day, may we as believers never lose sight of the truth that changed the course of Christian history and continues to change hearts today. There are moments in history when standing for God’s truth came at a cost, but truth has never been something we should compromise for the sake of comfort or acceptance. Our faith must be rooted in the Word of God, not in the changing opinions, traditions, or expectations of this world as preached from so many pulpits.
This was the day that Martin Luther released 95 powerful statements defending authentic Christian faith against misleading religious practices. Luther stated two central beliefs that have become foundational for the Christian—that the Bible is the central religious authority and that humans may reach salvation only by their faith and not by their deeds.
In his thesis, Luther condemned the excesses and corruption of the Roman Catholic Church, especially the papal practice of asking payment—called “indulgences”—for the forgiveness of sins, the freedom to commit sins in the future without eternal consequences, and ‘get out of hell free’ cards.
Luther believed that certain verses have a fair claim to be the most important verses in the entire Bible. I want to share with you how it looked when first translated into English somewhere around 1522–1536 from Tyndale’s Bible.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the Gospell of Christ because it is ye power of God vnto salvacio to all yt beleve namely to the Iewe and also to ye getyle. 17 For by it ye rightewesnes which cometh of god is opened fro fayth to fayth. As it is written: The iust shall live by fayth.
These are the verses that changed Martin Luther from the inside out. At his accusation, Luther refusing to recant, concluded his testimony with the defiant statement: “Here I stand. God help me. I can do no other.” It would be world changing if all of God’s children in the faith had such boldness to speak with the same heart.
My hope is that the words of scripture continue to change all who read them as well. There is a difference between simply knowing about the Gospel and being transformed by the power of the Gospel. When we truly understand that salvation is a gift of God’s grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, we have no reason to boast in ourselves and every reason to give Him all the glory. May we never become so familiar with these truths that we forget the incredible price Christ paid and the freedom we have been given through Him.
My encouragement to you Dear Hearers, is a quote by Charles Spurgeon, “Remember Martin Luther’s way of cutting the devil’s head off with his own sword. “Oh,” said the devil to Martin Luther, “you are a sinner.” “Yes,” said Luther, Christ died to save sinners.” Thus he smote him with his own sword. Hide in this refuge and stay there: “In due time Christ died for the ungodly.”
Let us remember that the same Gospel that saved us is the Gospel we are called to live out and boldly proclaim. May our words, our conduct, and the way we treat others reflect the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. We do not stand in our own righteousness, our own strength, or our own accomplishments; we stand because of what Christ has already accomplished on our behalf. And when the world challenges what we believe, may we answer with humility, love, conviction, and an unwavering confidence in God’s Word searching the scriptures with a due diligence.
To every brother and sister who feels alone in standing for biblical truth, know that you are not forgotten, and you are not standing alone. May we encourage one another, pray for one another, and remain steadfast together in the faith. Regardless of what this day means to the world around us, may our lives point others to the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There is still hope, there is still grace, and there is still power in the Gospel of Jesus Christ! And one of the most impactful parts of the Gospel for me is that Christ died for a wretched sinner like me as well, Amen. I stand on God’s word, who will stand with me?
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word, the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, and the courage to stand firm in our faith without compromise. Help us put these truths into practice tonight and every day, showing Your love, extending Your grace, and being a light to those who may not yet know You. We ask for Your protection over everyone going out tonight, especially children, families, and all those traveling; guide them safely, guard them from harm, and bring them home safely to their loved ones. In Jesus’ precious and powerful name, Amen.
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My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog
Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*
To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.
