Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules. You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness. My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true. Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight. Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live. (Psalm 119:137-144 ESV).
Luther’s new understanding of God’s righteousness and grace was gladly received by many of his students, colleagues, and friends. But his criticism of the church’s unbiblical teachings made many enemies. As he taught and proclaimed the gospel of salvation by faith in Christ alone, opposition mounted. Eventually, charges were brought against him before the Emperor. The outcome of this trial could mean life or death for him.
Luther’s writings were placed before him, and he was told to deny what he had said. After prayerful consideration, he replied humbly: “I stand convicted by the Scriptures to which I have appealed, and my conscience is taken captive by God’s Word. I cannot and will not deny anything… God help me.”
On this critical occasion Luther stood on the truth of God’s Word, like the psalm writer: “Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true.” The Lord protected Luther’s life by a remarkable providence and then inspired him to translate the Bible into the people’s language so that all could hear and read God’s truth and be rescued from sin.
We live in such a day. From so many different sources we are often called to make compromises, if not outright denials of the truth of God’s teaching. There is lots of room for differences of opinions and calm debate; however, we cannot deny the simple truth that Jesus is the only means to redemption. It is His work of grace that gives us the hope of eternal life. Some would argue that point adding some good work or evidence by ceremonial completion of sacrament or rite. We must not lose the sheer delight in the truth of God’s declaration through Scripture. Happiness and blessed peace come through the grace of God. Will you stand on God’s Word?
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