A Day to Celebrate

Forget the pumpkins and Halloween Haribo.  Today in 1517, Martin Luther, wrote an (offline) post that changed the world.

One of his most accessible works came 14 years later: Luther’s Galatians commentary.  It’s a total beaut – chock-ful of  gospel wisdom for those struggling with suffering and sin.  

So,  in honour of Reformation day, here’s a few nuggets from Pastor Luther to steady our souls..

“.. We are not to look upon our sins as insignificant trifles. On the other hand, we are not to regard them as so terrible that we must despair. ..Christ was given, not for small and imaginary transgressions, but for  mountainous sins; not for one or two, but for all; not for sins that can be discarded, but for sins that are stubbornly ingrained. Practice this knowledge and fortify yourself against despair, particularly in the last hour, when the memory of past sins assails the conscience. Say with confidence: “Christ, the Son of God, was given not for the righteous, but for sinners. If I had no sin I should not need Christ. No, Satan, you cannot delude me into thinking I am holy. The truth is, I am all sin. My sins are not imaginary transgressions… [Yet because my transgressions are multiplied]… therefore Christ the Son of God gave Himself unto death for my sins.” To believe this is to have eternal life.”

“By faith in Christ a person may gain such sure and sound comfort, that he need not fear the devil, sin, death, or any evil. “Sir Devil,” he may say, “I am not afraid of you. I have a Friend whose name is Jesus Christ, in whom I believe. He has abolished the Law, condemned sin, vanquished death, and destroyed hell for me. He is bigger than you, Satan. He has licked you, and holds you down. You cannot hurt me.” This is the faith that overcomes the devil.”  (Galatians 2:19)