Emphasis Preaching Journal

In the year 1510, Martin Luther made a pilgrimage to Rome. It was his desire to fulfill the expected requirements that would deliver a soul from purgatory. As his parents were still living, he devoted his actions to Grandpa Heine. One of the expected stations was to climb Pilate's stairs on hands and knees; while kissing each step, a penitent is to recite the Pater Noster. When Luther reached the top step he was disillusioned as to the purpose, meaning, and effectiveness of this exercise. Rising to his feet he asked himself, "Who knows whether it is so?" This was one of several experiences that began to formulate Luther's concept that we are not saved by works, but are justified by faith alone.

In his letter to the churches in Galatia, Paul continues to outline his theological position that we are no longer under the Law but are justified by faith alone. This was the challenge he placed before Peter who desired the Gentiles to follow Jewish customs. This is why Paul wrote regarding Peter's action, "So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified." This is why Paul could write regarding himself. "For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me."