For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11
Returning to Scripture
As we think about the Reformation, we see a remarkable shift back to the Scriptures as the ultimate authority in our faith. This movement ignited a passion for God’s Word, inspiring many to read and understand the Bible for themselves. It reminds us that Scripture is not just a collection of ancient texts but a living document that shapes our beliefs and guides our actions. Rediscovering the Bible transforms hearts and minds, forging a sincere relationship with Christ. In seeking out the truth of God’s Word, we are led to a deeper and more meaningful faith.
2 Timothy 3:16
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. – 2 Timothy 3:16
Romans 10:17
Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. – Romans 10:17
Psalms 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalms 119:105
Isaiah 40:8
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever. – Isaiah 40:8
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12
Grace Alone
One of the key principles of the Reformation was the concept of salvation by grace alone. This powerful truth assures us that we are saved not by our deeds, but by God’s grace. It’s a profound reminder that God’s love and mercy are freely given to us, regardless of our past mistakes or failures. This principle shifted the focus from human efforts to divine grace, liberating us from the burden of trying to earn our place in heaven. As we embrace this grace, we can live in joy and confidence, knowing our salvation is secure in Christ.
Ephesians 2:8-9
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9
Titus 3:5
He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. – Titus 3:5
Romans 3:23-24
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. – Romans 3:23-24
2 Corintians 5:21
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. – 2 Corinthians 5:21
John 1:16
Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. – John 1:16
Faith and Justification
Faith plays a pivotal role in the Reformation, as salvation comes through faith. By believing in Jesus Christ, we find justification, which means we are declared righteous before God. This was a radical notion during the time of the Reformation, emphasizing that no one could achieve righteousness through actions alone. Instead, it is our faith that unites us with Christ and opens the door to a relationship with God. By resting in our faith, we can approach God with confidence, knowing we stand justified by the blood of Jesus.
Romans 5:1
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 5:1
Galatians 2:16
Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law. – Galatians 2:16
Philippians 3:9
And be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. – Philippians 3:9
Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. – Hebrews 11:6
James 2:24
You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone. – James 2:24
The Priesthood of All Believers
The Reformation ushered in the idea that every believer has direct access to God, rather than relying solely on clergy. This beautiful truth empowers us to take an active role in our faith. We each have the opportunity to connect with God, engage in prayer, and share the Gospel, reflecting His love to those around us. It encourages us to see ourselves as capable ministers of the Gospel, called to serve our communities and one another. In recognizing our priesthood, we embrace our unique gifts and responsibilities in Christ’s body.
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. – 1 Peter 2:9
Revelation 1:6
And has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen. – Revelation 1:6
Galatians 3:26-28
So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. – Galatians 3:26-28
Ephesians 4:12
To equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. – Ephesians 4:12
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. – Romans 12:1
Public Worship and Community
The Reformation revived the importance of public worship and community life. Coming together as believers fosters fellowship, strength, and accountability. It reminds us that Christianity is not just an individual experience but a collective journey. Through communal worship, we experience God’s presence in powerful ways, supporting one another as we grow in faith. In embracing community, we share our struggles, joys, and triumphs, reflecting the body of Christ He desires us to be. We remind each other of God’s love and grace in our lives.
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25
Acts 2:42
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. – Acts 2:42
Ephesians 5:19
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. – Ephesians 5:19
Colossians 3:16
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. – Colossians 3:16
Matthew 18:20
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. – Matthew 18:20
Living Out the Faith
The Reformation urges us to not only believe but to live out our faith daily. Our actions reflect God’s love and purpose in our lives. By showing kindness, integrity, and compassion, we bear witness to Christ in our communities. This call to action encourages us to make choices that honor God and bring light to the world around us. As we live out our faith, others can see the impact of God’s grace in our lives, inspiring them to seek Him too. We are reminded that our faith should inspire transformation in how we live.
James 2:17
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. – James 2:17
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
Galatians 5:13
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13
1 John 3:18
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. – 1 John 3:18
Colossians 3:23
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. – Colossians 3:23
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the Reformation, we see how it has deeply influenced our faith today. From returning to the authority of Scripture to embracing God’s grace, it highlights the central themes of our life as believers. The emphasis on faith, community, and living out our beliefs serves as a powerful reminder that our faith journey is not solitary. It’s about how we connect with God and one another. Each of us has a role to play in sharing God’s love, grace, and truth in our lives. Together, let’s continue to walk in faith, trusting in His plans for us.
As we explore our faith further, I encourage you to seek out more on related topics such as the clarity of scripture and the church of Christ. These studies can provide additional insight and growth.
Let’s stay committed to our relationship with Christ as we reflect on His Word and encourage one another in faith.