"I DID NOTHING"

 

October 28, 2024

Our Devotions this week will focus on the historical period know as the Reformation. Over the next few days we will consider together some of the key developments in thought and practice during the Reformation period. 

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Hebrews 4:12

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Today, let's reflect on the importance and worth of God's Word. The Reformation era's teachings were summed up by the phrase "By Scripture Alone." With the Bible as the central focus, being God's voice, word, and purpose, scripture was considered as the foundation for both belief and action.

Recently, I came across an article that was discussing Martin Luther, as a pivotal figure of his time, praising Luther for his influential work that led to profound changes in the Church and Christian history. What caught my attention was Luther's humble reply to the honor and recognition he received in his time. He said, "I did nothing. The WORD did everything!" He attributed all accomplishments in reform and transformation to the power of God's word.

The Contemporary Church may find a valuable lesson in the idea that our vision, mission, and structure should be established by the study of God's Word. Allow the Word to lead. Martin Luther once expressed, "The Bible is alive; it speaks to me; it has feet, it runs after me; it has hands, it lays hold of me." May we engage with the Word of God with enthusiasm and intimacy like the "reformers", allowing God's word to be authoratative in our lives, for our own improvement and the strengthening of the world we live in.

TAKE AWAY

Read the following verse and take note of what “scripture is saying about scripture.” Write down key words or phrases or even questions that may come up for you.

2 Timothy 3:15-17

“… from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, 17so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”