This installment covering the historical background of the Apostolic Faith deals with its doctrinal heritage from the time of the Reformation to the time of its founding in Portland, Oregon. 

TOGETHER with other Protestant churches, the Apostolic Faith is an heir of the Reformation of the 16th century.

Historians have placed the date of the launching of the Reformation as October 31, 1517, the day Martin Luther posted his Theses on the door of Wittenberg Cathedral in Saxony, Germany, questioning some of the teachings of the Catholic church, and bringing to light the truths of God’s Word.

The dawn of that Great Awakening did much to dispel the spiritual darkness which had long blinded the minds of many who sought to obtain eternal life through works, penance and the buying of indulgences. It was at this time that Martin Luther boldly took his stand and fearlessly declared, “The just shall live by faith” (Galatians 3:11). Once again was God’s plan of salvation, JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH, proclaimed to the world. 

The Bible soon became an open Book, and the people could see that only God has power to remit guilt, that only God’s Word is infallible, that only by His Word shall men be judged, and only by His Word should men govern their lives. 

The doctrine of Justification by Faith, revived at the time of the Reformation, is a vital doctrine of the Apostolic Faith church, taught to be the initial spiritual work wrought in the heart of one who comes to Christ in true contrition seeking forgiveness. It is the act of God’s pardoning grace (following repentance) whereby one, through faith, receives remission of sins, and is given power to “go, and sin no more.”