Thursday, February 18, 2010

Martin Luther, Doctor and Confessor

Commemoration of Martin Luther, Doctor and Confessor
February 18, 2010

The Lord be with you

Today is recognized as the commemoration of Martin Luther, Doctor and Confessor. Obviously every Christian Church does not celebrate this commemoration. Martin Luther, born on November 10, 1843 1483, in Eisleben, Germany, initially began studies leading toward a degree in law. However, after a close encounter with death, he switched to the study of theology, entered an Augustinian monastery, was ordained a priest in 1505, and received a doctorate in theology in 1512. As a professor at the newly established University of Wittenberg, Luther’s scriptural studies led him to question many of the late Medieval Church’s teachings and practices, especially the selling of indulgences. His refusal to back down from his convictions resulted in his excommunication in 1512. Following a period of seclusion at the Wartburg castle, Luther returned to Wittenberg, where he spent the rest of his life preaching and teaching, translating the Scriptures, and writing hymns and numerous theological treatises. He is remembered and honored for his lifelong emphasis on the biblical truth that for Christ’s sake God declares us righteous by grace through faith alone. Luther died on February 18, 1546, while visiting the town of his birth. The 2003 movie Luther, starring Joseph Fiennes, does a good job in depicting some of the early key events in Luther’s life up to 1530.

Blessings in Christ,
Pastor John Rickert

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