Reformation Day: October 31

What do you know about Reformation Day (October 31)?

• Do you know the story of Martin Luther and the Ninety-Five Theses?
• Can you name all five solas and explain what they mean?
• Do you know why the Reformation was such a critical part of church and world history, and why it’s meaningful to celebrate today?
• All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
• Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law. – Romans 3:28
• 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
• Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. – Acts 4:12
• For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen. – Romans 11:36

Martin Luther knew that on November 1, 1517, large crowds would gather at the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany to celebrate All Saints’ Day. That’s why he picked the day before, October 31, to nail his Ninety-five Theses to the door. Everyone would have the opportunity to read his list of grievances towards the unbiblical practices of the Roman Catholic Church.

What Martin Luther intended to birth was an academic and religious debate—and a return of the church to biblical Christianity. What he received, however, was controversy that ultimately split the church and (re)birthed protestant Christianity.

The battle cry of the Reformation was sola scriptura—“by Scripture alone.” This new movement of God emphasized the authority of Scripture as the ultimate revelation to humankind of the person of Jesus Christ, the will and purpose of God, and the truth and power of the Gospel to redeem humanity. With the invention of the printing press, the average person had an ever-increasing opportunity to own their own Bible and read it in a language they could understand. The church in Rome was losing its self-administered authority as God’s mediator.

For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. – 1 Timothy 2:5-6

It’s because of common access to the Bible that the Reformation happened. Christians discovered from Scripture that they could have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Doctrines and practices such as purgatory and the sale of indulgences—things not found in Scripture—were dismissed. Believers found new freedom in Christ.

The freedoms Christians have in Christ are grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and are communicated in God’s Word. Over time, the celebration of biblical truths and the outflow of those truths from the Reformation were summarized into the five solas. These five statements are not the Word of God—but they are helpful presentations of what God’s Word teaches.

Sola Scriptura: Scripture alone is the final authority for faith and practice. It equips you to live completely for God.

Sola Fide: Justification—when God forgives you and declares you to be in right relationship with Him—is by faith in Christ alone, apart from works.

Sola Gratia: Salvation is by God's grace alone. It is a gift He gives that you cannot earn, but you can receive.

Solus Christus: Christ alone is the Savior; there is no other source for your salvation.

Soli Deo Gloria: All things exist for God’s glory. Your life should be lived to bring attention to His great worth.

As you reflect on the authority of God’s Word, the freedom you have in Christ to know God and worship Him, and the way God has orchestrated history for your good and His glory—we hope your hearts are filled with joy and gratitude to celebrate Reformation Day with your loved ones. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!