Reformation is a big deal in the Lutheran Church but Luther’s desire was not to not be Catholic. His desire was for the church to get back on point when it comes to Freedom, Freedom from sin.
It eventually became crystal clear to him that freedom from sin isn’t something we can earn. Freedom from sin is something that has been earned for us by Jesus. It was not and is not some kind of human process. Penance doesn’t forgive you. Pilgrimages don’t forgive you. Venerating holy relics doesn’t forgive you. Special masses don’t forgive you. Indulgences don’t forgive you.
Forgiveness can’t be earned, performed or purchased by any human means. Only Jesus forgives. Freedom from sin is entirely a gift earned by Jesus, received through faith.
- Revelation 14:6-7
- Romans 3:19-28
- John 8:31-36