The continuing need for Reformation truths.

Although the Reformation took place many years ago now, it is not just history. There were many truths highlighted in those days which remain relevant and important for us today.

Let me mention just one—the need for a right relationship with God and how that can be attained.

The Reformers were dealing with a world different from our own. They emphasised the need for justification by faith against a religious background where it was thought you could buy your way into God’s favour or earn your way through what you did.

In the different world of today people around the world continue to believe that salvation is something they can do. Therefore, we need to be clear in our own thinking about how a person—a sinner—can be right with a holy God.

Of course the Reformers didn’t invent justification by faith. They were simply bringing out a truth which is clearly taught in the Scriptures. For example, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9.)

Each phrase in that sentence is either underlining something to be believed or correcting some error that may be in our minds. Take time to prayerfully reflect on each one: “By grace,” “through faith,” “not of ourselves,” “the gift of God,” “not of works.”

Let us make sure that each detail is something we understand and are living by. And then that we respond to such a gracious God with thanksgiving, praise and worship.