It’s been more than five centuries since Reformation Day, and forty years since the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986. Are these events still relevant today? I believe the answer is the same for both.
EDSA, retains lasting importance. Just as the return of freedom through EDSA has faced occasional limits, the spiritual renewal of the Reformation—which restored the accurate teaching on soteriology, the doctrine of salvation—must also be continually upheld. This means salvation comes through God’s grace by faith in Christ Jesus alone, rather than through penance or indulgence.
However, both events failed to sustain their goals. The Reformation did not fully restore the truthful teachings of Scripture. It created its own traditions. Calvinism also misrepresented Scripture, like that of the doctrine of election. God did not mystically pick and choose people for salvation. Rather, God’s calling and election is always by the preaching and teaching of His Word (Ro 10:14-17). Jesus Christ explained that clearly in His Parable of the Sower. Matthew 13:23 teaches that the “good soil is the one who hears the Word and understands it”.
Ironically, both events though historical, yet their ideas stalled because they were left to men. The Reformation might have continued if Christians had adhered to Scripture alone.
Should Christians remember the Reformation? Yes, but only if the aim is to revive the spirit of reform. This return should focus on the Bible alone. Instead of repeating Reformation traditions, study the traditions of Scripture as taught by the Lord Jesus Christ and His apostles.
The apostle Paul said “So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us [the apostles], either by our spoken word or by our letter.” (2Th 2:15)
And again, Paul wrote, “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” (Rom 16:17)
For as long as Christians follow the writings of uninspired men, though of religious orders, yet are fallible and capable of error, then there will always be a need for a reformation. But if you desire to progress beyond the reformation and keep it, then learn and apply the science of biblical interpretation. Respect always the context, time element, audience relevance, and other disciplines in the exegesis of Scripture.
Christian teachings have grown so varied that some may question which version is accurate.
In this social media era, anyone may openly share beliefs and views. I propose we instead discuss our differences with civility. There is no need for throwing shade; such behavior often comes from those who cannot defend their positions and turn to insults instead.
Paul admonished Timothy, “Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness…” ( 2 Timothy 2:14–16)
Ultimately, every Christian disagreement should be resolved through biblical exegesis. It should not rely on tradition or quotations from various figures. Even creeds or confessions are insufficient. As the Westminster Confession of Faith, 31.4 notes, “All synods or councils since the apostles’ times, whether general or particular, may err, and many have erred; therefore they are not to be made the rule of faith or practice, but to be used as a help in both.”
Peter, in the words of Acts 3:6, declared, “I possess neither silver nor gold, but in the name of Jesus Christ, I offer you what I have.” Share freely, for you freely receive. Stay updated by heading to our about page and subscribe directly to receive notifications in your inbox. Blessing!
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