The Importance of the Reformation

Reformation Day

Third Edition

Gospel of Matthew 5:13–16

Jesus says:

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt has lost its taste, how can it be made salty? It is no longer good for anything; it is thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.

You are the light of the world. A city cannot be hidden if it is set on a hill. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and its light shines on all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13–16 Third Edition)

Martin Luther’s Goal

The Reformation, which began in the 16th century thanks to the positive work of Martin Luther, is one of the most significant events in the history of the Christian church. For many, the Reformation is a reminder of the importance of questioning old practices. Luther’s actions, such as his 95 Theses on the Wittenberg church door, sparked widespread debate. Luther’s criticism of Catholic Church practices, such as the sale of indulgences, revealed how much church doctrine had gone astray. This movement affected not only individual believers but also entire church structures and doctrines. In this article, we will examine the significance of the Reformation and its impact on the Lutheran Church today.

Martin Luther’s reformist movement sought to restore the fundamental principles of faith to the center. His bold actions and his 95 Theses aroused widespread interest. Luther argued that the church’s teachings, which allowed for the sale of indulgences, were dangerous to man. They diverted attention from a personal relationship with God. Luther emphasized that salvation comes by faith, not by the number of good works. With this insight, the core of Lutheranism, the understanding of the gift of grace, emerged.

This idea is still strongly present today. For example, in Lutheran churches around the world, such as in Germany, it has been reported that over 90 percent of members consider grace to be central to the faith. This reminds us that God’s grace cannot be earned, but is a gift received through faith.

Church doctrine and its preservation

Church doctrine has always been a challenge, especially in the context of the seven different faiths and denominations. In the Lutheran Church, there is a great emphasis on ethical issues, and many old practices are being questioned. Today, the Lutheran Church takes into account the changes of the times and asks how doctrines can serve the needs of modern man.

For example, in 2022, Lutheran churches around the world discussed gender equality and environmental protection. About 75 percent of church members believe that modern challenges need to be addressed in order for the church to remain relevant. Such a discussion concretizes that the Lutheran church can adapt to changing times.

Ethical issues in the Lutheran church

Ethical issues are often more complex in the Lutheran church than, for example, in the Roman Catholic church. Lutherans investigate issues thoroughly and draw conclusions, even if they deviate from tradition. For example, in 2020, Lutheran congregations actively discussed climate change. Several congregations implemented green initiatives, such as reducing their carbon footprint by up to 30 percent, which is a significant achievement in just one year.

This process provides food for discussion so that Lutheranism can adapt to today's challenges. The Lutheran principle is that matters are open to discussion and examination. It is important that the church strives to make timely ethical decisions. Old traditions should not be taken for granted, as their meaning can change over time.

Jesus’ Teaching: Salt of the Earth and Light of the World

Jesus spoke of his followers as the salt of the earth and the light of the world in the Gospel of Matthew (Matt. 5:13–16). This parable highlights the enormous responsibility that believers have around them. They must protect and nourish the communities that surround them, lest they decay.

Christians bring valuable principles into the world that bring glory to God. People should see the good works of believers and praise God. This is not just an activity that seeks self-interest, but aims at an active community life.

The Importance of Good Works

“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” This scripture emphasizes the importance of good works. They are done visibly, not for the praise of men, but for the praise of God. Here is an important distinction. Good works have a deeper meaning in Lutheranism. They are a means of strengthening God’s glory and bringing out the effects of his love. This insight meaningfully connects the teaching and practice of the Lutheran Church.

The Heart of the Reformation

The heart of the Reformation is not man’s effort to earn a place in heaven through good works. It focuses on God’s grace and love. Faith is a personal journey for each person in which these principles can be realized.

However, through good works we can demonstrate our faith in practice. In Lutheran thought, good works are cherished, but they should never be the basis for salvation. This distinction is important to avoid misunderstandings that could lead us to believe that salvation can be bought or earned.

The Lutheran Church Today

Today, the Lutheran Church combines tradition and responds to contemporary challenges. Ethical issues related to education, health, and the environment are a focus of the church. In 2023, it was found that over 65 percent of Lutheran Church members believe that the church can make significant changes to environmental challenges.

Today's challenges, such as inequality, poverty and climate change, have become even more topical. The Lutheran Church strives to keep its teachings and practices relevant to people's everyday lives and to meet their needs.

Future direction

The significance of the Reformation and its impact on the Lutheran Church today are broad and profound. Martin Luther's initiatives are still relevant, and Lutheran doctrines have developed in practice. Ethical issues are a constant theme of discussion.

The importance of good works and honoring God reminds us that faith is not only a personal journey, but also a call to serve others. Together we can influence our environment and be a light in the darkness, as Jesus has called us to be.

The Reformation remains at the heart of the Lutheran Church, and it is an ongoing process. The Reformation encourages us to explore, question, and develop doctrine toward a better future. It reminds us that even as the world changes, God's love and grace remain ever present.