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The Reformation

By the sixteenth century it was clear that the church was in decline. Martin Luther, a German monk, sought reform. Other events and trends added momentum. Some secular leaders wanted to be out from under the Vatican, there was increasing interest in the importance and role of the individual, the idea of knowing by authority was losing appeal, and the invention of the printing press made possible the rapid spread of ideas. Luther's reforms inspired a movement, and John Calvin began his own Reformed tradition. A third wing contained Anabaptists and others who were generally less optimistic about the church's relationship to secular power. As theologians tediously constructed doctrine, the Pietists sought to regain a simple spirituality. This Reformation mix of theology and devotion was facing an increasingly hostile intellectual climate within society.
1517: Martin Luther and His Ninety-Five Theses
There are many who simply do not understand the issues behind Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses. What was it that prompted Luther to nail his long list of complaints on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany?
1517: Martin Luther and His Ninety-Five Theses
There are many who simply do not understand the issues behind Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses. What was it that prompted Luther to nail his long list of complaints on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany?
1517: Martin Luther and His Ninety-Five Theses
There are many who simply do not understand the issues behind Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses. What was it that prompted Luther to nail his long list of complaints on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany?
1534: The Act of Supremacy
King Henry VIII Establishes the Anglican Church.
1534: The Act of Supremacy
King Henry VIII Establishes the Anglican Church.
1534: The Act of Supremacy
King Henry VIII Establishes the Anglican Church.
1546: Martin Luther's Funeral
Dear friends, I am now supposed to preach a sermon at the funeral of our dearly beloved father, blessed Dr. Martin, and gladly do so. But what shall I say and how shall I speak, since I probably will not be able to utter a word because of my tears?
1546: Martin Luther's Funeral
Dear friends, I am now supposed to preach a sermon at the funeral of our dearly beloved father, blessed Dr. Martin, and gladly do so. But what shall I say and how shall I speak, since I probably will not be able to utter a word because of my tears?
1546: Martin Luther's Funeral
Dear friends, I am now supposed to preach a sermon at the funeral of our dearly beloved father, blessed Dr. Martin, and gladly do so. But what shall I say and how shall I speak, since I probably will not be able to utter a word because of my tears?