One of the effects of the Reformation was denominationalism. We have Catholics, Lutherans, Baptists, Methodists, and more. But at the end of the day, God does not have denominations. It is people who have denominations. Standing around the throne in glory, believers will not be separated by denomination but will be united as one.
When Martin Luther posted the 95 Theses, he did not set out to start a new denomination. The 95 Theses were a call to debate. It was not about a church; it was about the kingdom. I imagine Luther’s hope was to unite all God’s people under the grace of God.
Luther had some choice words that a new denomination would take his name. This is what he said:
I ask that my name be left silent and people not call themselves Lutheran, but rather Christians. Who is Luther? The doctrine is not mine. I have been crucified for no one. St. Paul in 1 Cor. 3:4-5 would not suffer that the Christians should call themselves of Paul or of Peter, but Christian. – Martin Luther
The verse to which Luther refers is here:
“For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human? What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each.” (1 Corinthians 3:4–5, ESV)
The Reformation was not about Luther. The kingdom is about more than a single person. It was not about a new denomination. The kingdom is more than a denomination. It was about Jesus. It was about the kingdom.
Reflection
- How do we sacrifice the good of the kingdom for our prejudices and preferences?
- How do we partner together with other believers in spite of our differences?
Prayer
Our Father in Heaven, your kingdom come. We pray that you would unite your Church as one. Tear down the walls that divide your people. Forgive us for all our preferences and prejudices that hinder unity. Amen.
Paul Onder says
Who do You want to be identified with? A color,or a gender, or a religion? To support good mental health and answer this question, One has the option to become one with Christ, by answering, I Am a Child of God! If this answer fits You, you already know why this supports Unity and Righteousness! I would also add to this question with a another answer, I am a Forgiven Sinner, because I Believe!