Protestant Reformation Origins

Prelude to the Reformation

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Prelude to the Reformation: Wycliffe, Hus, and the Late...

Context of the Pre-Reformation Catholic Church In the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance (1300s–1500s), the Catholic Church was simultaneously expanding worldwide and experiencing significant internal tensions. Historically: The Church was rapidly growing through Spanish and Portuguese expansion into the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Literacy rates in Europe were low; the Bible existed only in … Read more

Johann Tetzel and the 95 Theses

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Martin Luther challenges indulgences in Wittenberg, Discover who Johann Tetzel was and how his indulgence preaching led directly to Martin Luther’s 95 Theses

Martin Luther: Background and Spiritual Crisis Martin Luther, originally preparing for a career in law, entered monastic life after surviving a violent thunderstorm, during which he vowed to devote himself to God. Inside the Augustinian monastery: Luther practiced intense discipline and self-denial. Despite his efforts, he believed he could not overcome sin through personal righteousness. … Read more