How the Reformation Changed the World |
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Few people today realise that the first Bibles printed into English had to be smuggled into England, and that the Bible translator, William Tyndale, was burnt at the stake for the crime of translating the Bible into English.
The sacrifices made by the Reformers, and the far-reaching impact of their courageous application of the Word of God to every area of life, needs to be rediscovered. The Christian Church has made more positive changes on earth than any other force or movement in history. Most of the languages of the world were first codified and put into writing by Christian missionaries. More schools and universities have been started by Christians than by any other religion, nation or group.
Almost every civilisation and culture had slavery and human sacrifice before the Christian influence came in. Those countries which enjoy the most civil liberties are generally those lands where the Gospel of Christ has penetrated the most. The Gospel of Christ is life-changing, history making and nation transforming! If it doesn't change your life and the lives of those around you, then it's not the Biblical Gospel.
It was some years ago when a Frontline Fellowship mission team visited a remote village in Cuando-Cubango province in Angola. Our missionaries were astounded to see the village observing 31 October as Reformation Day. The school children had specially designed big display boards, with hand-drawn pictures of Martin Luther and other Reformers, and the great battle cries of the Reformation Scripture alone, grace alone, Christ alone, faith alone!
On 31 October 1517, Martin Luther posted his 95 Thesis in Wittenberg. By God's grace, Luther's courageous act of challenging corruption and unBiblical heresies, launched the Great Reformation.
The Reformation Celebration includes action-packed, power point presentations aimed at celebrating this dynamic period of Church history. It will also present a positive and practical programme of action to implement Reformation principles in our own lives, families, churches and society today.
Visit www.ReformationSA.org for great resources including books, CD's, lectures, powerpoints and films to inspire and involve your family, congregation, school and community in working and praying for Reformation and Revival today.
Dr. Peter Hammond |