Dr. Lydia S. Marrow

#OTD November 20, 303: During the Great Persecution, Emperor Diocletian issued an offer of amnesty to imprisoned Christians on the condition that they sacrifice to the Roman gods. The decree was driven in part by overcrowded prisons, since many believers chose imprisonment rather than compliance with earlier edicts demanding sacrifices and the surrender of Scriptures. Refusing to compromise, many Christians remained steadfast despite the promise of release.

#OTD October 31, 1517: Martin Luther posts his Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Church, challenging the sale of indulgences and calling for debate. The document spreads rapidly, sparking the Protestant Reformation and renewing the church’s commitment to the truth that salvation comes by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone (Sola Gratia, Sola Fide, Solus Christus), according to Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura), to the glory of God alone (Soli Deo Gloria).