Many Protestants commemorate the beginnings of the 16th-century Reformation on the last Sunday in October. The Epistle from Romans 3:19–28 is an obvious choice. While this passage shows respect for the purposes of divine Law, it emphasizes that no one can be set right with God or justified by works of the Law. All humans are sinners and can be justified only by divine grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. This teaching lies at the heart of the Reformation. It teaches the distinction between Law and Gospel and human dependence on divine grace.
One Gospel reading suggested for this Sunday is Matthew 11:12–19. At first glance, this passage may not seem like an obvious choice. It notes the different approaches of John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth. John had a very simple way of life. He proclaimed judgment, repentance, and preparation for the Kingdom on the edge of society. In contrast, Jesus is more involved with people. He is present at various occasions, eating and drinking with all kinds. Those who wished to find fault criticized both teachers and their approaches.
However, both criticisms missed the mark. For the messages of John and Jesus were basically the same. Despite differing approaches, both proclaimed repentance and faith, judgment and promise, Law and Gospel. Both taught divine wisdom, and as Jesus concludes in Matthew 11:19 (KJV), "...wisdom is justified of her children." In other word, for those with open ears and hearts, the message of Scripture is the same regardless of the external accompaniments: Repent and believe the good news!
No comments:
Post a Comment