Next week on February 18th will be the 479th anniversary of the death of Martin Luther, the German priest, theologian, author, hymnwriter, professor and Augustinian friar. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Western Christian history, Luther is best known for challenging the officials of the Roman Catholic Church which many view as the start of the Protestant Reformation.
Recently while reading The Family Wins devotional during my quiet time, I came across a brief summary of the impact Luther had on the culture of his day which still resonates in our society over 500 years later. I’ve reprinted the summary in the hope it inspires you to look more deeply into the life of this remarkable hero of faith, and in the hope that it might prompt you to ponder your own boldness for declaring the truth.
Martin Luther
(1483-1546)
Champion of Salvation
On October 31, 1517, a professor in Wittenberg, Germany nailed several sheets of paper to the door of the town church, hoping to open debate on some theological problems he had with official church positions. This is often viewed as the start of the Protestant Reformation.
Born in 1483, Luther’s early training and education prepared him to become a lawyer. But a terrifying experience in a thunderstorm caused him to seek spiritual comfort by becoming a priest. He received formal theological training and began lecturing on the Bible, all the while wrestling with his own spiritual condition. How could he be saved? Despite centuries of tradition to the contrary, the answer came with ringing clarity from the Bible: God saves those who look to Christ alone for their salvation.
Luther was called to stand trial for his beliefs before church and secular courts. His reply was strong and sure: “Here I stand: I can do no other.” And in order that the message of salvation would continue to pierce hearts, he translated the Bible into German, wrote various pamphlets, developed worship services and preached the Word of God.
The Protestant Reformation affected family life, politics, the arts, and education – all because one man boldly declared the true meaning of salvation in Jesus Christ. By the time of his death in 1546, Luther had made a powerful impact on society.
Every generation needs its Martin Luthers – Christians of commitment and courage who know what they believe and can defend those beliefs by word and deed. Determining to believe and obey God’s Word and walk closer to him, regardless of popular opinion, is the first requirement. Expose yourself daily to the Bible and the truth it contains.
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