95 Thesis - Reformation

 

Oct 27, 2021       95 Theses

 95 Theses were posted on the doors of Wittenberg

Church in Germany on October 31, 1517 by Martin Luther, a monk serving his church. These theses were concerns and complaints Luther had against the established church of the time and wanted to bring about change in what people should believe about God. People believed that God would punish them for every mistake they made and this lead to people being afraid of God. Luther served as a monk and through his work he helped the poor, studied and read the Bible. One of the common practices at the time was the buying/ selling of indulgences which was a way of paying money and being told you were forgiven. This was not what Luther learned from his work and so began his theses.

                This act of posting his concerns on the church doors was significant because Luther knew that many people would read it during the next day’s All Saints services. When people read it, there was disagreements and yet there were also others who supported Luther. Eventually Luther left the established church and the Reformation of the church was begun.

                The Christian church has had many challenges and changes through its history. Even today there is he question of whether the Church will survive the global pandemic. But this is not the question to ask, it is whether our faith will remain steadfast or become stronger. Maybe as the world emerges from global lockdowns and staying home, what will occur is a reawakening of the need for hope. As Christians we believe this hope comes from Jesus Christ who through his death and resurrection made it possible for us to receive eternal life. Having this promise for our life after death makes us filled with hope.

                Romans 3:19-29 is the central text for the early Reformers to extend God’s grace in many ways. How might we be challenged today to share of God’s grace and to tell of God’s hope and love? “we are made right by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. All have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.  But if we have faith we are made right with God.”

                Transformation and change are a part of every person’s life. Yet, when we receive forgiveness of sin, we also receive the promise of eternal life in Jesus. Only by God’s grace is this possible. As we reflect on the significance of the Reformation, let us realize again- that we are people who will be transformed and changed throughout our lives. It is however our decision to choose to follow Jesus, by faith.

PRAYER

Loving God sometimes we complain about so many little things that it is difficult to really decide what is important and what we really want changed.  But what is needed is what comes from within us- a change of heart and attitude and focus for living. By faith in Christ we are made new. With hope and love we are offered a new opportunity to serve and share with others the good news of Jesus. Luther discovered this through the reading of the Bible. We pray O God that we too will come to you by faith and grow in understanding. We thank you for your gift of grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.