1. Part I September 30, 2009

2.  In the 1520’s, a powerful religious movement began in Saxony in Germany.  It spread rapidly throughout northern Europe  It affected society, politics and the spiritual lives of men and women  It was a broad revolt against the superstitions on the medieval church.

3.  The Protestant Reformation took place at a time of sharp conflict with the newly emerging nation- states.  These nation-states were looking for conformity and centralization.  Many of the towns were concerned about the loss of local authority and looked to the reformation as an ally against the loss of their power

4.  The reformation broke out first in the imperial free cities of Germany and Switzerland.  The protestant movement attracted followers from different areas:  Economically prosperous members of local guilds  Those with a history of opposition to the encroaching government authority of nation- states  People who felt bullied or pushed around by government

5.  Popular Religions Movements/Criticism of Church  Many believed that the Catholic Church no longer provided a foundation for religious piety  The movement towards lay control of a more simple church was beginning  Diet of Worms: 1521 (Page 360  German nobility presents the emperor with a list of church abuses

6.  People were pushing for a church that got back to stressing piety and a more direct connection to god  The laity was demanding good preaching in the vernacular.  Communities were beginning to protest church abuses and new nation-states were protesting the interference of the church in “state” affairs.

7.  Martin Luther was born and raised in Germany.  He entered the priesthood in 1505 after a promise he made during a storm  After his ordination, he began to agree with many of the criticisms of the church

8.  Justification by Faith Alone  Luther was disturbed by the conflict between his own sinfulness and the perfect righteousness required for salvation that no human could ever attain  He believed that you could be righteous by your full belief and trust in Jesus Christ.  He didn’t believe that good deeds themselves brought you salvation