31st October 2025

By Faith, Not Works

. . . The Just Shall Live by Faith.

Romans 1:17

Today's Bible Reading: Romans 1:13–17.

Reformation Day, observed on October 31st, marks the historic moment in 1517 when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany. What began as a call for reform within the Church became a powerful movement centred on the authority of God’s Word and the doctrine of justification by faith.

Romans 1:17 was a life-altering verse for Luther. Though he was a monk, deeply religious and devout, he was tormented by guilt and fear, unable to find peace with God through his own efforts. Then, through Scripture, God opened his eyes: “The just shall live by faith.”

This was revolutionary. It meant righteousness before God is not earned by good works, religious rituals, or human effort—it is received by faith in Jesus Christ. The Gospel is not about what we do for God, but what God has done for us in Christ.

Reformation Day is a time for us to return to the Gospel, not just in memory, but in personal renewal. The Reformation is not just history—it’s a call to each of us to live by faith, to stand on Scripture, and to rest in God’s grace.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the gift of salvation by faith in Christ. Help me to live by faith today. In Christ's name. Amen.