When you think about the Lutheran Reformation, one of the easiest ways to think about it is with the phrase “Sola Fide” — by faith alone. That was one of the ways that the Reformers’ summarized their differences with the Roman Catholic Church. “Sola Fide” — by faith alone — is the biblical way of saying that we are saved by faith alone and not by our own works. Faith is a gift from God where He connects you to the Savior Jesus Christ and all of the blessings of His life, death, and resurrection for you.

As we celebrate the Lutheran Reformation today, we are reminded that this is exactly what the Reformation was about. This is why we are conservative Lutherans. We believe, teach, and confess that we cannot by our own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called us by the Gospel, enlightened us with His gifts, sanctified and kept us in the true faith.

• Christ has set us free from trying to earn our own salvation
• Christ has set us free from living under a cloud of guilt and despair
• Christ has freely forgiven our sins, given us peace with God, and assures us of a home in heaven.

This is why we are conservative Lutherans; this is exactly what the Bible teaches from start to finish; this is the gospel good news of eternal salvation!

We hold that a man is justified by faith alone apart from any works of his own! Amen!