Bishop Michael Rinehart

In Luther’s Works “Career of the Reformer I” Volume 31 of the 54 “gives explanations of the Ninety-Five Theses. The substance of this thesis is very deeply rooted in and close to the heart of almost all teachers. The fist test was of all concerning the merits of the saints and the first prof to “this argument first by saying of Christ, When you have done all that is commanded, say ‘We are unworthy servants’. ” Luke 17:10 The second Matthew 25:9 the wise maidens had no desire to share their oil for fear that there would not be enough also for themselves. Third Paul says, 1 Cor. 3:8 “Each shall receive his wages according to his labor.” Fourth Galatians 6 ” Everyone must answer for himself.” ” Fifth, every saint is obligated to love God as much as he can, indeed more than he can, but no one has or can do that. Sixth, the saints, in their most perfect work, that is, through death, martyrdom, and suffering, do no more than is required. Indeed they do what is required and scarcely that. Seventh, although I have produced so many reasons, they, on the other hand, to support their position, have not produced one, but only a recital of the circumstances, speaking without prof from the Scriptures, the teachers of the church, and sound reasons. For that reason. we can, indeed we must, completely ignore their opinion. Then Luther goes on to prove with more argument and authority of Scriptures.”

In all of Luther’s works translated in the 54 volumes into English, there is not a Volume just for Luke. I find it somehow odd that he did not teach more on Luke. It is fascinating to find that Luke 17:10 was the first argument he uses to define in explanation of the Ninety-Five Thesis and the first test to the Reformation. I think as for me this was the first insight to the Theology of the Cross that he is also given credit for. I also believe it is one of the first sacrifices in Christendom people recognize for themselves and in others. When we look at what we owe for the Grace we have be given and change that to the the duty that is expected. We are not worthy of Praise. We can never repay God the Glory enough for the cost paid in our behalf, so I am never going to be worthy of praise. This to me is the first test of real faith and what started the Reformations.