Some Christians commemorate the Reformation on the last Sunday in October. On 31 October 1517, Martin Luther posted the Ninety-five Theses for debate about these issues. Luther and other Reformers rediscovered the neglected Scriptural teaching that pardon and justification come to us by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. One key verse that expresses this teaching is Romans 3:28, "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law" (KJV).
Fallen human beings cannot earn pardon or justification. Only God's grace and forgiving mercy can save us from sin. Divine grace and mercy have been expressed in many ways, primarily through the saving work of our Lord Jesus Christ. He humbled Himself, came into this world, lived, taught, suffered, died, and arose from the dead in order to conquer sin and death and to redeem us.
Sometimes, Anglicans claim their tradition is "reformed catholic," but it is not always clear what they mean by this expression. From a historical point of view, considering Anglicanism as "reformed catholic" means acknowledging Reformation influence. Luther and other 16th-century Reformers rediscovered the biblical, catholic, and evangelical faith taught by Scripture and the early Church, and the English Reformation accepted these basic insights. The English Reformers tried to apply insights in an English context. They showed respect for both the ancient tradition and the biblical insights of the continental Reformers.
Contemporary Anglicans should acknowledge this Reformation heritage. Anglicanism would not exist without the influence of Luther and other Reformers. So around the anniversary of the Reformation, let us reaffirm that justification comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. This central teaching of the Bible is the basis for being truly catholic and truly reformed. And this faith should be a living reality in our daily life and devotion!
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