Every October 31st, the Church commemorates Reformation Day. In this episode, Pastor Jeff discusses the most pivotal moments in church history: the Protestant Reformation and the bold faith of Martin Luther.

Pastor Jeff explores the story behind Luther’s 95 Theses, his struggle for assurance, and how his discovery of justification by faith alone reshaped the course of Christianity. This episode is a reminder that the Church must always return to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture because God’s Word is never peripheral; it’s central.

What We Discussed

00:19 Reformation Day and Its Importance
Pastor Jeff explains why October 31st should be remembered not only as Halloween but as Reformation Day, a turning point in church history.

03:11 What Was the Protestant Reformation?

Pastor Jeff explains how reformers Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, and John Knox led a movement to return the Church to the gospel and the authority of Scripture, standing against corruption and unbiblical practices.

05:22 The Spark: Luther’s 95 Theses
Pastor Jeff recounts the moment Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517, igniting a movement that shook Europe.

06:49 The Story Behind Luther’s Conviction
From a near-death lightning storm to entering the monastery, Luther’s personal journey reveals how God led him to grace through faith.

08:20 The Breakthrough in Romans
Luther’s study of Romans opened his eyes to the truth of “the just shall live by faith” and transformed his understanding of salvation.

10:17 The Selling of Indulgences
Pastor Jeff explains how the Church’s corrupt sale of indulgences for profit sparked Luther’s outrage and his call for reform.

12:23 Rome’s Response and Luther’s Trial
After the Pope condemned his views, Luther was summoned to the Diet of Worms to defend his faith and refused to recant.

14:31 Luther’s Legacy
Luther’s defiance and devotion to Scripture changed the Church forever. Pastor Jeff recommends Here I Stand by Roland Bainton for those who want to learn more about his life and faith.

Read Here I Stand by Roland Bainton: https://lionandlambapologetics.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Here-I-Stand-A-Life-of-Martin-Luther-Bainton.pdf

“I pray that you'll never forget those who have gone before us to ensure that we hear and heard the gospel in its purest and simplest forms.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!