Question

Write about Martin Luther.

Answer 1

Martin Luther, a monk of the Augustinian Order and a Professor’ of Theology in the University of Wittenberg, was a devout Christian and a scrupulous follower of the Catholic faith. However, on his visit to Rome, he was shocked by the luxurious life of the officials of the Church. Martin Luther wrote a pamphlet against the sale of indulgences, the sale of offices, and other corrupt practices. He listed out ninety-five points and pasted them on the Church door of Wittenberg. Martin Luther signaled his revolt by publicly burning the Papal Bull.

Luther further elaborated his differences with the Church. He rejected the belief that ceremonies and penances would lead to salvation. He argued that it was by faith alone that one could attain salvation. He put forward the doctrine of justification by faith. The grace of God would be bestowed by the divine will alone and not by the deeds of the people. Luther’s reformation marked the first successful break from the Church and the establishment of the Protestant Church.