Status Updates From Reformation Theology: A Rea...

"That none might be excluded from the means of obtaining felicity... He manifests his perfections in the whole structure of the universe, & daily places himself in our view, that we cannot open our eyes without being compelled to behold him... On each of his works, his glory is graven in characters so bright, so distinct, & so illustrious that none, however dull and illiterate, can plead ignorance as their excuse."

"It is not from works that we are set free by the faith of Christ, but from belief in the works, that is, from foolishly presuming to seek justification through works."

Martin Luther, The Freedom of a Christian

Luther's concern with the late medieval church was less that it had made salvation too hard (by endless works rather than simple faith) & more that it had made salvation too easy (by thoughtless outward works or transactions rather than heartfelt repentance, being crucified with Christ). The real Gospel of Christ, charged Luther, was both more serious, more frightening, & more liberating.