The Reformation: Why It Still Matters
- GOLS
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
On 31st October 1517, Martin Luther famously nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the Castle Church door in Wittenberg. That single act is often seen as the spark that ignited the Protestant Reformation.
For the Reformed Protestant faith, this date marks more than just a protest against indulgences and corruption within the Church of Rome. It was the beginning of a movement that reshaped faith, freedom, and the very structure of European society.
Why Was the Reformation So Important?
For centuries before Luther, the Catholic Church dominated every aspect of Christian life. The Pope wielded influence not only over spiritual matters but also over kings, parliaments, and nations. The Reformers changed that.
They proclaimed that salvation is by faith alone, not through the sale of indulgences or elaborate traditions. They declared that Scripture is the supreme authority—above priest, pope, or council. And they opened the Bible to the people, insisting that everyone should be able to read God’s Word in their own language.
This great shift transformed Europe:
Faith and Freedom: No longer were believers bound to rituals; they were free to approach God directly through Christ.
Nations and States: The weakening of papal control gave rulers the freedom to govern without Rome’s interference, helping shape the idea of modern nationhood.
Literacy and Learning: If every Christian was to read the Bible, then every Christian had to learn to read. Schools, universities, and the spread of literacy owe much to this Reformation spirit.
A Spirit of Inquiry: By challenging religious authority, the Reformers inspired people to question in other areas too—politics, philosophy, and science. From this grew the Enlightenment, democracy, and modern ideas of liberty.
In short: the Reformation did not only reform the church. It transformed the world. Its legacy is still with us today—in the value we place on education, in our belief in freedom of conscience, and in the continuing witness of the Reformed faith.
Scotland’s Part in the Story
The Reformation story is not just Luther’s in Germany or Calvin’s in Geneva. It is also Scotland’s story.
Patrick Hamilton – Scotland’s first Protestant martyr, executed in 1528, whose short but bold ministry lit the first sparks of reform.
George Wishart – The preacher whose fearless witness and martyrdom in 1546 deeply influenced John Knox.
John Knox – The thunderous reformer who carried the flame of truth across Scotland, reshaping the nation’s faith and freedom.
Their sacrifice and vision laid the foundation for the Protestant Scotland we know today.
The Great Reformers Series
This month, the Loyal Orange Institution of Scotland will share the stories of the Great Reformers:
John Wycliffe – The “Morning Star of the Reformation,” champion of Scripture in English.
Jan Hus – Burned at the stake in 1415, a courageous witness who inspired others to stand for truth.
Martin Luther – The monk who sparked a movement in 1517.
John Calvin – The brilliant theologian whose teaching continues to shape Reformed faith today.
Patrick Hamilton – Scotland’s first martyr for the Gospel.
George Wishart – Bold preacher and faithful witness.
John Knox – The driving force behind Scotland’s Reformation.
Each one, in their own time, stood boldly for the authority of Scripture and the liberty of the Gospel.
Why We Remember
As an Institution, we honour the Reformers not only as figures of history, but as witnesses whose courage still speaks. Their stand reminds us of our own calling to remain firm in Faith, Hope, and Charity.
The Reformation was not just about the 16th century—it is about the legacy we live today. A legacy of faith in Christ alone, a commitment to God’s Word, and the freedoms for which our forebears sacrificed.
On this Reformation season, let us remember with gratitude, celebrate with conviction, and stand ready to carry forward the light of truth for generations to come.
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