What Do They Mean Today?
Word From Wiese
October 22, 2025
Friends in Faith,
Boy, Martin Luther blew it!
Why did he choose October 31 to post his 95 Theses? Well, how could Martin Luther ever have guessed that posting his calls for church reform, lodged on the doors of Wittenberg’s Castle Church, would launch a world-wide Reformation? Furthermore, how could he have foreseen that October 31, the Eve of All Saints Day, would eventually be completely hijacked by the mega-holiday of Halloween, focused around costumes, ghoulish decorations, and trick-or-treating? With even many Lutheran Christians forgetting how October 31 was known first and foremost for centuries as Reformation Day? I wish Martin had chosen a different day to post his theses so they wouldn’t be so over shadowed these days!
So as a warm up to all the trick-or-treat fun next Friday, let me share just 9 of Luther’s 95 Theses. I’ve “translated” them into everyday language. Scan them and choose a couple to ponder. Furthermore, while they’re not candy bars, also provided are some reflection questions for you to “chew on.”
Finally, for some more treats, scroll all the way to the bottom for some colorful photos from Saturday’s Oktoberfest, a super-duper fun time. Thanks to photographer Jim Christopher!
1. True repentance is a lifelong calling
Original Thesis 1: “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ‘Repent,’ he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance.”
In everyday language: Jesus didn’t mean for us to repent just once. Turning our hearts back to God is something we do our whole lives.
Reflection question:
How might daily repentance shape the way we live, work, and relate to others?
2. Repentance is more than confession to a priest or a rite in worship
Original Thesis 3: “Repentance does not mean solely inner repentance; such inner repentance is worthless unless it produces various outward mortifications of the flesh.”
In everyday language: Saying “I’m sorry” to God is only the start—real repentance shows up in changed behavior and attitudes.
Reflection question:
What is one way we’ve seen true repentance produce real change in our life or someone else’s?
3. Church leaders should celebrate not control repentance
Original Thesis 6: “The pope cannot remit any guilt, except by declaring and showing that it has been remitted by God.”
In everyday language: Only God can forgive sins. The church’s job is to point people to God’s mercy, not control it.
Reflection question:
How can church leaders today make sure they point people to God’s grace instead of the rules of religion?
4. Buying indulgences doesn’t bring forgiveness
Original Thesis 27: “They preach man-made doctrines who say that so soon as the coin jingles into the money-box, the soul flies out of purgatory.”
In everyday language: Forgiveness isn’t something you can buy with money or good deeds. God’s grace is free.
Reflection question:
In what ways do people today try to “buy” God’s favor instead of receiving grace freely?
5. True forgiveness comes from sincere repentance and faith
Original Thesis 36: “Any truly repentant Christian has a right to full remission of penalty and guilt, even without indulgence letters.”
In everyday language: Anyone who genuinely turns to God in faith is fully forgiven—no special papers, payments, or rituals needed.
Reflection question:
What helps you trust that God’s forgiveness for you is complete and not dependent on anything extra?
6. Giving to the poor is better than buying indulgences
Original Thesis 43: “Christians are to be taught that he who gives to the poor or lends to the needy does a better work than buying indulgences.”
In everyday language: Helping people in need matters more to God than paying for religious privileges.
Reflection question:
How might prioritizing generosity over religious “extras” change the way we live out our faith?
7. Trusting indulgences can lead people away from true faith
Original Thesis 49: “Christians are to be taught that the pope’s indulgences are useful only if they do not put their trust in them; but very harmful if they lose their fear of God because of them.”
In everyday language: Relying on human rituals or systems instead of trusting God can harm our spiritual lives.
Reflection question:
Are there traditions or habits you rely on more than trusting in God’s grace?
8. The true treasure of the Church is the gospel of Jesus Christ
Original Thesis 62: “The true treasure of the Church is the most holy gospel of the glory and grace of God.”
In everyday language: The Church’s greatest gift isn’t buildings, rituals, or wealth—it’s the good news of Jesus.
Reflection question:
How can Christ Our Shepherd make sure the gospel stays at the center of our life and mission?
9. Christians should follow Christ through humility and sacrifice
Original Thesis 94: “Christians should be exhorted to be diligent in following Christ, their Head, through penalties, deaths, and hell.”
In everyday language: Following Jesus isn’t about comfort or privilege—it often involves humility, sacrifice, and perseverance.
Reflection question:
What does it look like for you to follow Jesus in hard or costly ways?
Reforming with Martin and you,
Pastor Fritz
