How the Reformers Inspire Hope in Today’s Church,

As I scrolled through news about elections, conflicts, and natural disasters, my heart grew heavy, wondering how the church can remain faithful to Christ in such a confusing and troubled world.

Just then, my kids interrupted my thoughts, eagerly waving books from the library about Reformation Day and the Reformers. Putting my phone aside, I joined them on the couch and started reading. We read about Martin Luther, who stood up for truth amid intense political and religious tension, relying on Christ’s strength through persecution. We learned about Queen Jeanne of Navarre, who boldly promoted the gospel despite her family’s resistance, and about William Tyndale, who sacrificed his life to make the Bible accessible in English. With each story, I felt my worry give way to courage and hope.

I’ve long loved the stories of Christians from the past. These stories remind us that, no matter how difficult our time may seem, Christ has always preserved his people. Reflecting on church history shows us that God’s faithfulness endures—and that we’re not alone in today’s challenges.

Past Christians Offer Present Encouragement

While each generation faces its own struggles, Christians throughout history have had to confront sin, defend truth, and endure hardship. Even in these turbulent times, we can hold on to the confidence, security, and hope we have in Christ by remembering how God has preserved his people through past centuries.

God’s Sovereign Reign in History

Watching the news, it can feel as though world leaders control the church’s fate. But Proverbs 21:1 reminds us that “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.” God’s sovereignty over rulers and events is woven throughout both biblical and church history, using secular leaders to accomplish his purposes.

For example, God allowed self-interested German nobles to protect Luther, enabling his teachings to spread. King Henry VIII’s quest for a divorce ultimately led to England’s break from the Catholic Church, allowing the Reformation to flourish. Even persecuted groups like the Anabaptists helped shape modern religious freedoms through their sacrifices. Time and again, even ungodly leaders have been unable to derail God’s plans. When our own leaders fall short, we can take comfort, knowing that God is still on his throne.

True Citizenship Reminders from Church History

The Reformers weren’t perfect; they too made mistakes. While the Lutherans advanced religious freedom, they later persecuted Anabaptists, and Tyndale’s Bible, initially restricted to the elite, wasn’t accessible to all. Still, these missteps remind us that our true citizenship is in Christ alone. Paul urged the Corinthian church to prioritize their identity in Christ, encouraging unity and harmony despite their differences (1 Cor. 1:10).

In the same way, we can unite with Christians across denominations and traditions, finding strength in our shared faith even when we have differing views.

Instilling Hope for Future Generations

As Christian parents, it’s easy to worry about the future, wondering if our children will face hardships they can’t endure. While trends like declining church attendance may cause concern, history reminds us of Christ’s promise: “the gates of hell shall not prevail against” his church (Matt. 16:18). Each age brings unique challenges, yet Christ has faithfully led his church through them all.

God raised up Martin Luther to challenge false teachings, called John Calvin to emphasize his sovereignty, and inspired the Anabaptists to demonstrate personal commitment to Christ. The same God who strengthened the Reformers will continue to guide his people today, preparing us to withstand whatever may come.

Even if Western society grows more hostile toward Christianity, we can remain hopeful because “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8).

Seeing Christ’s Hand Throughout History

The Reformation was a world-changing moment for the church and society alike. Hundreds of years from now, Christians may look back on this era as a similar turning point for the Western world. But as they reflect, they’ll see God’s hand at work, faithfully preserving and refining his people.

The same God who empowered the Reformers to stand firm in a culture against them will strengthen his people today, sustaining us until he calls us home. In all of history, we can see his unwavering presence—and find renewed hope for the future.