The Pastor's Pen - The Zelienople Church of the Nazarene

"God's Powerful Word"
October, 2004

Have you ever just paused to think of how powerful the Word of God really is? Have you ever stopped long enough to realize that the reading of His Word, the preaching of His Word and the simple sharing of the scripture has changed many people? Do you know that there was a time in church history that corrupt priests and preachers were not willing to allow the people to really "know"

Gods Word. People could not have a copy of the Bible like we have. My, we take this opportunity for granted! Stop right now, and read a few passages that are your favorites. This newsletter article can wait.

Well, welcome back. I trust your time in God’s Word was blessed. This next part is a small part of church history that had a great impact and demonstrates the simple power of God’s Word. A bit over 500 years ago, there was a man named Martin Luther. He was a monk who had spent much time studying God’s Word. Once, when working with the book of Romans, Martin struggled with Romans 1:17. It states; "the righteous or the Just shall live by faith." This appears very simple, doesn't it? It surely was for this man, Martin Luther. He had punished his body physically, attempted all kinds of good, kissed every step at St Peter’s church from bottom to top and back down again. Frustrated, he still had no sense of forgiveness, even after these great achievements. Say friend, are you trying hard to gain Gods grace and forgiveness? Yes, it is true. We do not gain Gods grace by hard work; faithfullness in duty; kissing church steps, ministers rings; or keeping the sacraments. It is by grace you are saved through faith and nothing of yourself; it is a gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8) Martin Luther discovered the power of God’s Word to save him by simple faith. Remember, the just shall live by faith: (Rom. 1:17.)

This is where the power of God’s Word took over. Martin was saved. He then felt a tremendous need to get the scripture into the hands of the common people. The church resisted him and eventually strongly opposed him. You may know Martin then placed 95 “thesis” or arguments on the church door. His quest was to get the scripture into the hands of the people so they could discover the power of Gods Word personally. Out of this event came the printing press and the Bible in a language that the common people could read. The "pro-test-ant", protestant church was born. Millions have since discovered again "the righteous live by faith." (Rom 1:17.)

Once, when asked in a debate with some priests and a pope, "Martin, what would happen if all the people had a scripture they could turn to and read?" His response was, "There would be more Christians." His response is still true today. October 31st is another anniversary date for this great church man. Celebrate a time of revival by spreading God’s powerful Word.

Joyfully Serving,

-Rev. Gene Hill, Pastor