The 95 Theses
Thursday, October 31
Bible Verse:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws. I have suffered much; preserve my life, Lord, according to your word. Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth, and teach me your laws. Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law. The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end.”
— Psalm 119:105-112 (EHV)
Devotion:
Martin Luther wanted everyone to know the truth he had found in the Bible. So, on October 31, 1517, he wrote down 95 ideas about how the church should follow God’s Word and put them on the door of a church. This was called the “95 Theses.” These ideas talked about how people were misunderstanding the Bible and were trying to buy their way into heaven, which isn’t what God wants. Martin didn’t mean to make people angry; he just wanted everyone to see that God’s Word, the Bible, was the most important thing we should follow. He believed that we are saved by faith, not by paying money or doing good deeds.
People all over started reading what Martin wrote, and soon, everyone was talking about the Bible and what it said. This was the start of the Reformation, a big change in the church. Martin knew that God’s Word is like a light in the darkness, showing us the right way to go. He wanted everyone to walk in that light and trust what the Bible says. Today, we can still learn from Martin Luther’s bravery and remember that the Bible is our guide, helping us know God’s truth in every part of life.
Questions to think about:
1. What were the 95 Theses?
2. How is the Bible like a light for our lives?
3. How can you use the Bible to help guide you every day?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for giving us the Bible to guide our lives. Help me to always follow Your Word and remember that it shows me the way to live. Amen.
Activity Idea:
Draw a picture of Martin Luther putting his 95 Theses on the church door.