The Reformation: A Timeless Pursuit of Gospel Purity
Many people view the Reformation as a dusty relic of history, a reaction to a bygone era that no longer holds relevance today. However, this perspective overlooks the core essence of the Reformation: a relentless pursuit of gospel purity.
Uncovering the Heart of the Reformation
The Reformation was not merely a response to a historical issue 500 years ago. Rather, it was a project aimed at continually moving closer to the gospel, driven by the word of God. This journey began with Martin Luther, who dug deep into Scripture and allowed its teachings to confront and overturn the conventional wisdom of his time.
A Legacy of Constant Purification
The Puritan movement, which emerged in the 1560s in England, built upon Luther’s foundation. They sought to further reform the Reformation, recognizing that God’s work in their lives and churches was far from complete. This commitment to ongoing purification by the word of God remains a guiding principle for believers today.
Why the Reformation Still Matters
In his book, Michael Reeves argues that the Reformation remains vitally important for the church and our lives today. By exploring eleven key questions raised by the Reformers, Reeves demonstrates the enduring relevance of the Reformation. The central principles of the Reformation, such as justification, continue to apply, making its issues just as pertinent now as they were 500 years ago.
A Call to Constant Reformation
The Reformation was never intended to be a static event but rather a dynamic process of constant change and purification. As believers, we must continually search the Scriptures to discern how further reformation needs to unfold in our lives. By embracing this mindset, we can ensure that the Reformation is never truly over.
Principles for a Lifetime of Reformation
As we reflect on the Reformation, we are reminded of the importance of holding onto certain principles. We must strive to be constantly purified by the word of God, recognizing that this process is essential to our growth as believers. By doing so, we can experience the transformative power of the gospel in our lives and churches.
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