The Protestant Reformation 1500-1650

Background to the Reformation Catholic Church was weakened by scandal during late M.A. Humanist scholars criticized what they saw as the “worldliness” of the Church Popes fought long and costly wars that drained the Church’s treasury

More money was raised through the sale of indulgences that were said to reduce sinners’ time in purgatory

Martin Luther Son of a wealthy German peasant who became a monk in 1505 Taught Bible studies at the University of Wittenberg in Germany Tried to lead a holy life, became convinced that this alone would not win God’s favor

Came to the realization that salvation was simply a free gift from God Good works were a sign of salvation, but doing good works could not earn salvation Began to criticize sale of indulgences

“As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs.” John Tetzel

Claimed the Bible and a person’s own conscience outweighed the Pope’s authority Excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1520 Called before the Imperial Diet of Worms to renounce his beliefs

“I cannot… go against my conscience. Here I stand “I cannot… go against my conscience. Here I stand. I cannot do otherwise. God help me.” Martin Luther

Luther’s Teachings 1. Christians were “saved by faith alone.” 2. The Bible was the ultimate religious authority. 3. Individuals could have a personal relationship with God

Impact Protestantism founded (Lutherans, Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, etc.) 100 yrs. of religious warfare in Europe Freedom of conscience Criticism of all forms of hierarchy Bible translated into common languages (like German)

The printing press: It ended the monopoly social elites had on information.