Approximately 500 years ago, Martin Luther sparked a “Reformation” within the Roman Catholic Church that shook Europe. Slumbering minds awoke. Controversy erupted. An unstoppable movement was born. The Pope trembled. When the dust settled, countless Catholics-Turned-Protestant had abandoned their church.
Fast-forward to today. Interdenominational cooperation has become the norm. Differences are being minimized. Many Protestant Churches seek unity with Rome. Many are even saying that October 31, 2017 will mark the official end of the Reformation entirely, but this is not true. Beneath the friendly dialog, the basic issues that divided Protestants and Catholics 500 years ago are unchanged. Rome is still saturated with unbiblical traditions. Pope Francis exalts Mary. Money is still paid to rescue souls from purgatory. When I visited Rome, I saw old women climbing stairs on their knees seeking to earn the favor of God.
Yes, Jesus prayed for His followers “that they may be one” (John 17:11), but real unity must also be based on truth. “Your word is truth” (John 17:17), declared the Savior. The Reformation continues today in the three angels’ messages of Revelation 14:6-12. We must hold to these truths, and teach them boldly, in love, lifting up Jesus Christ as Savior of all. Salvation is still only through repentance and simple faith in His merits. As signs of Christ’s return thicken around us, let’s hold on to God’s truth without compromise.
Steve Wohlberg, Speaker/Director, White Horse Media,www.whitehorsemedia.com. A TV producer, radio host, seminar speaker, and author of more than 30 books, he has been a guest on more than 500 radio and television shows.