Why Reform? The Church, especially Popes, became increasingly more corrupt, especially during the Renaissance. ( ) –More concerned with politics, money, and “worldly interests” Two particular areas… –Indulgences Release from all or part of the punishment of a sin. –Purchased ($) –Relics Bones or other objects connected with saints considered to be holy –People began collecting these. The Church would make money off of the sale! –Many were fake. Chains of St. Peter

Origins of the Reformation What is Humanism? Christian Humanism –Movement to reform the Church. Develops from Renaissance Humanism Believe that people have the ability to reason and improve themselves. –Read basic works of Christianity. –Become more pious. Improved human beings could then change society. Desiderius Erasmus –Writes “The Philosophy of Christ” c.1500 Christianity should show people how to live good lives on a daily basis, not just provide beliefs on how to be saved. To reformone must spread the philosophy of ChristTo reform the church one must spread the philosophy of Christ, provide education in the works of Christianity, and criticize the abuses of the church KEY – Erasmus wanted to reform the Catholic Church, not break away from it.

Martin Luther “Erasmus laid the egg that Luther hatched.” Martin Luther –Monk/professor at University of Wittenberg –Believed that humans can only be saved through their faith in God. Indulgences/Relics mean nothing! –Also believed that the Pope and priests have no special powers. –Writes “95 Theses” in 1517 Complains about church corruption, selling of indulgences

Luther, Cont’d In 1518, Pope Leo X dismissed Luther’s ideas and harmless. –“He is a drunken German, who, when sober, will change his mind.” Luther’s ideas were spread quickly. –Why? –Printing Press. In 1519, the Pope finally demanded an explanation from Luther. –Pope conceded on some points, but demanded he withdrew others. –Luther declined, excommunicated Luther is accused of heresy. –Summoned to the Diet of Worms. Asked to recant, declines. –Declared an outlaw, his works were to be burned. Protestantism is born! “Since then your majesty and your lordships desire a single reply, I will answer without horns and without teeth. Unless I am convicted by scripture and plain reason, I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other.” My conscience is captive to the word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise. God help me. Amen”

Luther soon went into hiding… Luther’s movement turned into a revolution. Local German rulers took over churches, and instituted Luther’s reforms. Finally ended in 1555 with the Peace of Augsburg. The division of Christianity was formally accepted. The Division of Christianity