Today, 31 October, Protestants celebrate the 500th anniversary of the reformation.
What began as a theological dispute in 1517, this event has had a huge impact on religious and cultural life of Europe, and then around the world – the economy, education, medicine and social structure.
500 years have passed, and now Protestantism is the second largest Christian denomination after Catholicism. The number of followers of this denomination has more than 800 million people. In 49 countries, the majority of citizens are Protestants, and the number of believers of this confession, according to the Pew Publishing Centre, the USA, Nigeria and China are leading.
What was the essence of this powerful event?
There are 5 tenets that summarize the position of the father of the reformation Martin Luther and his associates:
— Sola Scriptura! – The Scripture Alone!
The Bible is the Word of God, in which we have to seek answers to questions and compare them with other sources of information.
— Sola Fide! – Only by faith!
Man receives salvation by faith in Jesus Christ, not their own efforts.
— Sola Gratia! – Only by grace!
God justifies those who believe in Him by grace. It is His generous gift. Justification cannot be earned.
— SolusChristus! – Only Christ!
Only through the sacrifice of Christ, people have the opportunity to receive forgiveness and go to heaven.
— Soli Deo Gloria! To God alone glory!
People should not give glory to anyone else but God.
The commitment of Martin Luther these postulates is clearly expressed in his often quoted phrase:
“My conscience bound by the Word of God. I can’t and don’t want anything to deny, because it is not good or safe to go against conscience. Here I stand; I can do no other. God help me. Amen.” (Martin Luther)
The reformation gave rise to a new Christian denominations – Protestantism. But all this time the Church was concerned about the recent split and its consequences. According to Pope Francis, the last 50 years of official Ecumenical dialogue between Catholics and Lutherans were given the opportunity to reconcile both points of view. «Martin Luther wanted to renew the Church, not divide it,» added the Pontiff.
In January 2016, was published the booklet «Common prayer» — «Common Prayer» (English)., with the General liturgical instructions in order to Lutherans and Catholics are able jointly celebrate this memorable date.
Commenting on the upcoming event, Lutheran Bishop called the jubilee of the reformation, «a festival of Jesus and the message of divine mercy.»