In commemoration of today’s 507th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, I’d like to share some fun facts about fellow reformers and friends, Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon.

Plus click here to download your FREE Reformers Keepsake as my gift to you! 

1. Luther posted the 95 Theses on the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany in October 1517. These were the differences Luther found between the Roman Catholic Church and the Bible. His refusal to recant these views led to him being excommunicated.

Enjoy this framable portrait of fellow reformers, Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon, created by close friend Lucas Cranach the Elder. Click here to download this exclusive keepsake to save on your computer or print a copy.

2. While Luther’s fiery pronouncements ignited the Reformation, Melanchthon’s scholarly mind provided crucial theological structure.

3. Luther and Melanchthon had contrasting personalities but complemented each other. Luther was bold, outspoken and sociable. Melanchthon was careful, reserved and introverted.

4. Luther published his German Bible translation, and it quickly became a bestseller, as well as a model for other vernacular translations, including Tyndale’s English Bible. Melanchthon proofread Luther’s German translation and wrote several commentaries.

5. Luther taught that the doctrine of justification by faith alone was the central doctrine of the Christian life. He also said that faith came solely as a gift from God.

Join me in celebrating the influence of these reformers today and let it inspire you in your ministry. Remember, the Reformation that Luther started over 500 years ago is far from over!

Your partner in ministry,
Nelson

© Nelson Searcy. All Rights Reserved.

About Nelson Searcy

Nelson Searcy is an experienced church growth strategist, pastor, church planter and coach, consulting with churches around the world. As founder of Church Leader Insights and the Renegade Pastors Network, he has personally trained more than 3,500 church leaders in over 45 denominations through live events, seminars and monthly coaching. Nelson is also the Founding and Lead Pastor of The Journey Church, with locations across New York City and in Boca Raton, FL. Nelson and his church routinely appear on lists such as “The 50 Most Influential Churches” and “The 25 Most Innovative Leaders.” He is the author of over 100 church growth resources and 18+ books, including The Renegade Pastor: Abandoning Average in Your Life, Ministry and The Difference Maker: Using Your Everyday Life for Eternal Impact, and At the Cross with the People Who Were There. He and his wife, Kelley, have one son, Alexander.