In the early 1500’s the Church had lost its way.  It was teaching we are saved by our own works of righteousness instead of the righteousness of Christ.  And that meant that they strayed from the truth of God’s Word that says the righteous live or are saved through faith in Jesus Christ.  And that meant that people were not sure of God’s forgiveness and their hope was not certain and sure.  The Reformation was a time in history when God helped His Church see the gifts of truth, forgiveness and hope we all receive through Jesus Christ.  Today we conclude our three week sermon series titled, Gifts of the Reformation.  Our focus today: Gift of Hope.