The Reformation (1517-1648)
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Religion produces pride, but the gospel produces humility. Faith in yourself is simply a form of self-glorification and idolatry. Faith in Jesus glorifies him and liberates us to worship freely. The Reformation sought to return to a God-centered understanding of the gospel—where God sets the standard and he meets the standard, where he is righteous and he makes us righteous.
When pride and self-reliance are seen as virtues instead of vices, the gospel has been compromised. The Reformation sought to bring us back to a right relationship with ourselves and with God.
Believe the gospel. You are so bad that God had to die for you. You are so loved that God was glad to die for you. Repent of your self-justification and put your faith in the one who is just and justifies you by his grace.
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