WHY THE NEED TO REMEMBER
THE 16TH CENTURY REFORMATION?

In the 21st century, Christians have almost forgotten the Reformation. This is the age of compromise and ecumenism. Why do we have to remember this period of Church History? Why do we have to talk about the great split in Christendom in the 16th Century? It does not edify anyone. Is that true? Should we forget the great event of the 16th Century? Should we put aside the great men like Martin Luther, John Calvin, Zwingli, etc.? Most Protestant churches today do not commemorate the Reformation. It is a forgotten past. It is a tragedy indeed!

The 16th Century Reformation should always be remembered in the Protestant Church. If we forget this event, the danger is that we may follow the practices of the Roman Catholic Church (RCC). Sad to report that the RCC today has been accepted by Protestant Churches, esp. the Anglican, the Methodist and Charismatic Churches. Prominent Church leaders have called on churches to work closely with the RCC. They have signed documents calling for Evangelicals and Catholics to come together. The 21st Century will see a greater emphasis on Christian Unity between the RCC and the Protestant church. Is this biblical? Is this right in the sight of God?

We need to understand that the RCC doctrines differ from the Protestant church. During his time, Martin Luther spoke vehemently against the RCC beliefs & doctrines. The 95 Theses which he wrote was against Rome and her beliefs. Yet there is a call from the Protestants to return to the doctrines of the RCC.

We must remain faithful to God's Word. The reformers brought the Word of God to the Church and Christendom. We must not undo what they had done. To go back to Rome is to revert to the dark ages. It will be a return to the traditions, the power of the Pope and the RCC. "Roman Catholic doctrine is shot through with legends and dogmas and superstitions that have no biblical basis whatsoever. The stations of the cross, the veneration of saints and angels, the Marian doctrines such as the Immaculate Conception, the Assumption, and the notion that Mary is co-mediatrix with Christ-none of those doctrines can be substantiated by Scripture. They are the product of Roman Catholic tradition" (John MacArthur).

Martin Luther said:
"Here is lack of understanding, for understanding proves by the Word that such patchwork is not according to God's will, but that doctrine, faith and worship must be preserved pure and unadulterated; there must be no mingling with human nonsense, human opinions or wisdom.

"The Scriptures give us this rule: 'We must obey God rather than men' (Acts 5:29)." Let us do so and remain stedfast to God's Word which the reformers had boldly given to us.

Pastor