This Day in History

Four hundred and ninety one years ago today, Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on the doors of a church in Wittenberg, Germany to debate the doctrine and practice of indulgences by the Catholic Church. This act by Luther was the catalyst that began the Protestant Reformation which began as an attempt to reform the Catholic Church. Many were troubled by what they saw as false doctrines and misuse of power within the Church, particularly involving the teaching and sale of indulgences. In addition, the practice of simony (buying and selling church positions) and corruption within the ranks led to a much needed reformation.

Because of the bravery and conviction of men like Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin the gospel was recovered and made available to the masses. The Five Solas sum up the core beliefs of the early reformers:

Sola Gratia (grace alone)
Sola Fide (faith alone)
Sola Scriptura (scripture alone)
Solus Christus (Christ alone)
Soli Deo Gloria (to God alone be glory)

I am of the reformed faith. I believe in election and in the complete sovereignty of God. I believe that He works all things for the good of those who are called according to His purpose. I believe in the gospel. I believe.