Reformation Revival
Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Psalm 85:6
In 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany, and set in motion a movement that rocked Europe and would change the world. Though many other factors joined to launch the Protestant Reformation, God used a revival in Luther’s heart to start a revival of Christianity in his time.
Our Scripture today from Psalm 85 calls for a revival that begins with the Holy Spirit working in individual hearts, bringing a refreshing return to God with passion and zeal. Revival is not a random burst of energy and emotion but is based on truth found in the Bible. For Luther and other Reformers of his day, the revival that came to be called the Protestant Reformation was based on five enduring principles.
True Christian faith is based on salvation in Christ alone, by grace alone, through faith alone, and on Scripture alone —all of this is for glory to God alone. These five points summarize the key principles of the Reformation.
Are these five lasting principles at work in our lives? As we ponder these teachings that were rediscovered long ago, may their truth work in our hearts to strengthen and revive us, making us messengers of the gospel of Jesus Christ wherever God has placed us.
Thank You, Lord, for the way You shape, transform and renew Your church. As we reflect on Your salvation, we pray with the psalmist, “Revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Inspired by a Today devotion