by Zach Roll

God’s Infinite Word

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link. 

First off, Happy 500th Reformation! It is on this date 500 years ago that Martin Luther nailed the 95 theses to the door of the Wittenburg Castle Church, sparking tension, debate, and an eventual break from the Roman Catholic church. Martin Luther joined the Catholic monastery when he promised God he would devote his life to Him if he saved Martin from a severe thunderstorm. In his time in the monastery, Martin became increasingly frustrated, even frustrated with God. Then Martin read the book of Romans for the first time, and everything changed. He understood that all of his frustration was justified upon realizing that the Word of God was being distorted by the papal authorities. They were preaching works, faith, and indulgences, which is a blatant contradiction to the Word of God.

“For it is by grace that you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8 English Standard Version.

Our salvation has nothing to do with our works or how much money we give to the church. It has everything to do with the boundless grace, mercy, and love of our God who sent Jesus to die on the cross. This sacrifice provided a completely sufficient and perfect payment for our sins. It is a free and gracious gift that we can only receive, not earn.

“From the cross Thy wisdom shining breaketh forth in conquering might; from the cross forever beameth all Thy bright redeeming light” -Thy Strong Word. Lutheran Service Book #578

The Reformation proves another thing. No matter what attack the Word of God comes under, it will always prevail. The Bible has undergone so many attacks, even threat of extinction from certain historical figures. Each and every time, the Bible wins.

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Matthew 24:35 New International Version

“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of God endures forever.” Isaiah 40:8 New International Version.

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