It’s Reformation Day! Let’s Celebrate!

Though most may have forgotten, today is Reformation Day, a significant event for all true Christians!

On this date, 501 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses for debate to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany.

In his statements, posted on the eve of All Saints’ Day, Oct. 31, 1517, Luther argued against the sale of indulgences (a fundraising scheme of the Roman Church in which it offered forgiveness of sins and deliverance from purgatory in exchange for money paid for the indulgence) and urged a return to the Scriptures as the sole source and judge of doctrine and to faith in Christ and His atoning sacrifice on the cross as the only source of forgiveness and life.

The 95 Theses mark the beginning of the Lutheran Reformation and a return to Christ and the Bible’s doctrine.

As a result of Luther’s stand against the errors of the Roman Church, the true Gospel of forgiveness of sins and life everlasting through faith alone in Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice upon the cross for the sins of the world was again proclaimed and continues to be proclaimed to this day in churches remaining faithful to the Scriptures.

Forgiveness of sins and eternal life in God’s kingdom cannot be purchased with money or merited with human works. It is God’s gift to man solely for the sake of the holy life and innocent sufferings and death of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, for the sins of all the world; and it can be received solely through faith in Christ Jesus.

The Gospel is not a proclamation offering forgiveness if we do certain things or live a certain way; it is the proclamation that Christ suffered the punishment we sinners have deserved. He paid in full upon the cross and rose again in triumph; and through faith alone in Christ and His vicarious atonement, we sinners are reconciled to God, have His pardon and forgiveness and a place in His everlasting kingdom! Cf. Romans 3:19-28; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21.

What a blessing to celebrate this day!