A New Religion is Born The Protestant Reformation
A New Religion is Born The Protestant Reformation Changes the World
Martin Luther • Became a monk in 1505 – He wanted to be a good Christian – taught scripture in Germany • In 1517 took a public action against selling indulgences
95 Theses • “formal statements” attacking the priests who sold indulgences • He posted them on the castle door in Wittenberg • Luther’s 95 theses were copied down & sent to a printing press
What Luther Wanted: • Salvation by Faith – Not by “good works” or sacraments of Church • Authority of the Scripture – The Bible was the final word. The Pope and church traditions were not authorities. • All people with faith were equal – Priests were not superior. People could interpret the Bible themselves.
The Pope Responds • Threatened Luther with excommunication (1520) • Luther refused to recant his statements
Luther Video
Edict of Worms • Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire (Charles V) declares Luther an outlaw and heretic 1521: – no one should provide food/shelter to Luther – all his books should be burned
German Princes go to War • Some German Princes support Pope, but Prince “Frederick the Wise” supports Luther – Helps Luther go into hiding for a year – Luther translates Bible into German • German Princes eventually go to war with Charles V – They became known as Protestants • Protestant- is any Christian not associated with the Catholic Church
Peace of Augsburg (1555) • Charles V declares peace • The ruler of each German state would decide the religion of their state • Roman Catholic Church loses power!
Impact of Reformation
- Slides: 10