The Early Protestant Reformation
Tetzel(A.D. 1465–1519) Johann Tetzel was a German preacher, theologian, and inquisitor who became infamous for his unscrupulous practices in selling indulgences, especially in relation to sins not yet committed. These practices were the catalyst for Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses and... more was successful because he abused the system by promising things beyond what the indulgences offered. His jingle, “As soon as your coin in my coffer rings, a soul up from purgatoryIs the place in Roman Catholic theology where those who die in a state of grace, but not yet clean from the stain of sin, suffer temporal punishment in a purification process. more springs,” rang through the neighboring town of WittenbergNorthern German town where Luther taught in its university from 1511 until his death and where the Protestant Reformation began and remained the center of Lutheran Reformation. more. Many of Luther’s parishioners purchased indulgences for deceased loved ones. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was concerned for the welfare of his flock, so he decided to speak out against Tetzel(A.D. 1465–1519) Johann Tetzel was a German preacher, theologian, and inquisitor who became infamous for his unscrupulous practices in selling indulgences, especially in relation to sins not yet committed. These practices were the catalyst for Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses and... more selling under false pretenses. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more did not object to indulgences themselves but to Tetzel’s tactics and to the concept that the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more had the power to control and sell the meritA person’s right of deserving reward. In Catholicism it consists of two parts, Condign merit (a concept developed by Augustine) referring to good works of love that are performed through God’s grace making a person worthy of the reward of... more accumulated in heaven.
LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more listed his objections in his famous ninety-five theses and sent them to the Archbishop of Mainz, not knowing he had sponsored the sale. The archbishop forwarded Luther’s objections to the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more, who at first ignored them as just some innocuous dispute between a jealous Augustiniantheologies founded on Augustine’s theology which formed the foundation for Western Christian theology for Catholics, Lutherians and Calvinists. more monk (LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more) and a competing Dominican monk (Tetzel(A.D. 1465–1519) Johann Tetzel was a German preacher, theologian, and inquisitor who became infamous for his unscrupulous practices in selling indulgences, especially in relation to sins not yet committed. These practices were the catalyst for Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses and... more). However, according to legend, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more nailed his ninety-five theses to the door of the cathedral as an invitation to other clergyconsists of the priest, ministers and pastors of Christian churches. In the medieval church this term referred to both regular priest who were monks subject to a rule (regula) of a monastic order and secular priest who were not monks... more to have a disputationInitially was an academic debate conducted in a university in the high and late middle ages, but later grew to include formal public theological debates sponsored by town councils. These disputations played an important role during the reformation. more (debate) regarding these points of doctrineis derived from the Latin word for teaching, doctrina, and is an important aspect of Christianity more so than other world religions because Christianity focuses on the teachings and nature of Christ. more. No one took him up on the offer, but his list was printed and widely distributed, creating quite a stir which dramatically hindered sales. Emperor Maximilian I informed the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more that the controversy was serious and that people in Germany were taking sides. When proceeds dropped and the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more expressed concern, Rome finally took notice.
The papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more was very sensitive to challenges to its authority, especially in light of the recent controversies involving the Babylonian captivity and papal schism. The papal theologian took Luther’s open critique as an attack on the institution of the papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more and reacted accordingly. The popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more appointed Cardinal Thomas Cajetan in AugsburgA southern German city that became the site for several imperial diets, including (1) Luther’s meeting with the papal legate, Cardinal Cajetan, in 1518 regarding the indulgences controversy,; (2), the presentation of the Augsburg Confession to the emperor in 1530... more to adjudicate the matter. Luther and Cajetan(A.D. 1518) Luther submits to a formal interview with Cardinal Cajetan at the end of the imperial Diet at Augsburg and refuses to recant. more met three times without reconciliation. Cajetan ordered LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more to submit to the authority of the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more, which LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more refused to do unless Cajetan could convince him he was wrong. Cajetan referred to canon lawThe written decisions of councils, papal edits and legislation in the Catholic Church that form an elaborate code of rules and law. Protestants completely reject the authority of canon law. more and Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more rulings collected by Peter LombardPeter Lombard (c. A.D. 1096–1160) was a prominent theologian who briefly became Bishop of Paris before his death. Lombard’s magnum opus, Four Books of Sentences, was a compilation of biblical texts and passages from Church Fathers on nearly every topic... more, which LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more refused to accept, insisting on proof from scripture, which Cajetan could not provide. Consequently, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more appealed directly to the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more. A month later, the papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more issued decreesThe concept that God orders specific things to occur. This concept is influential in Calvinist theology which maintains that everything that happens is ordained to happen due to an eternal resolution of God’s will, even if it is to permit... more claiming the pope’s authority exceeded that of the Bible and that he was infallible in matters of faithIn word for belief and faith is the same in Latin and most European languages, but in English faith often denotes an active believe, one that inspires action based on a belief. For Luther, faith and belief generally meant the... more, claims that had never been made before. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more then appealed to a general council of the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more. He had tapped into the unresolved tension between the papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more and the bishops regarding the seat of ultimate authority: general church councils or the papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more.
LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was eloquent and dynamic, and the dispute grew from being solely about indulgences to questioning papal authority. In actuality, the Protestant Reformation(A.D. 1517) The Protestant Reformation begins as Martin Luther posts his 95 Theses, largely in response to the widespread abuses caused by the aggressive commercialization of indulgences. more was largely a dispute about authority. Previously, the power struggle had been between the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more and secularOf the world in contrast to the divine. more authorities. Now, the right of individuals was vying for ultimate control. Additionally, traditionThis word comes from a Latin term meaning “to hand down,” that originally referred to the teaching of the apostles as handed down in the churches they founded, which led to these churches gaining authority of other locations due to... more previously exercised dominion over the Bible because it interpreted scripture. Now, Protestants claimed that all authority rested in the Bible alone, not with traditionThis word comes from a Latin term meaning “to hand down,” that originally referred to the teaching of the apostles as handed down in the churches they founded, which led to these churches gaining authority of other locations due to... more.
With this increased visibility, the conflict between Luther’s teachings and Catholic theology became more apparent. Catholic theologian Johannes Eckius (also known as Eck) challenged one of Luther’s colleagues, Andrew Carlstadt to a debate on free will, which LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more attended. Carlstadt echoed Luther’s sermons stating that after the fall, human nature had become so depraved that men did not have the capacity to choose God’s will. Eck insisted that our free will cooperates with God’s graceIs a term used to identify unmerited assistance by God primarily to redeem and transform human beings. In the early and medieval church it also referred to God’s influence throughout existence. Redemptive grace is important to Augustinian theology which has... more to produce good works and that we have the power to choose good or evil.
Eck then drew LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more into a debate that LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more thought was primarily going to be about indulgences and his ninety-five theses. But Eck turned it into a debate about papal authority and infallibility. Under intense expert questioning, Eck was finally able to get LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more to admit he did not believe that the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more was infallible and that his authority was not superior to that of the Bible. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more disputed Eck’s assertion that Jesus’s statement “Thou art PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ life and took on a leadership role after the death of Jesus... more, and upon this rock I will build my church” gave the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more absolute authority. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more countered that both Paul(c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 64) Apostle and early Christian missionary, whose letters are the earliest documents contained in the New Testament and thus the first extant writings in Christian theology. more and PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ life and took on a leadership role after the death of Jesus... more himself said that Jesus(c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 30-33) Also known as Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and Savior of the World. He is the founding figure of Christianity and accepted by Christians as the Son of God in the flesh. He taught... more was the foundation and chief cornerstone of the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more, and even if the reference to PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ life and took on a leadership role after the death of Jesus... more meant PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ life and took on a leadership role after the death of Jesus... more had the authority as Eck said, it should be strictly construed to apply to PeterPeter (c. A.D. 1–65) was a Jewish fisherman, chosen by Jesus to be one of his 12 Apostles. Peter was a critical witness to many events in Jesus’ life and took on a leadership role after the death of Jesus... more personally. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more later mentioned that this debate with Eck helped crystalize Luther’s doctrineis derived from the Latin word for teaching, doctrina, and is an important aspect of Christianity more so than other world religions because Christianity focuses on the teachings and nature of Christ. more known as the priesthood of all believers, and the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more was the biblical anti-Christ.
After this debate, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more became a national figure whom the papacyThe office of pope in the Roman Catholic Church which is the highest office in its hierarchical structure. more felt compelled to silence. In July 1520, the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more issued a bullComes from the Latin word bulla for "bubble" or "boss" and was used official papal documents that published the pope's decision regarding some issue such as Pope Leo X's condemnation of Martin Luther's teachings as heresy. This word was used... more (edict) condemning a number of Luther’s tenets as heresyComes from a Greek term meaning “sect,” and was used by the early Church theologians to identify doctrines that they rejected as not orthodox. The term does not refer to unbelief but ideas held by some baptized Christian that was... more. He ordered Luther’s books burned and demanded that he confess his faults and beg for forgiveness within sixty days or he would be excommunicated. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was incensed and burned the bullComes from the Latin word bulla for "bubble" or "boss" and was used official papal documents that published the pope's decision regarding some issue such as Pope Leo X's condemnation of Martin Luther's teachings as heresy. This word was used... more in a public demonstration of defiance and of his decision to leave the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more.
LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was a good politician. Just as Paul(c. 4 B.C.–A.D. 64) Apostle and early Christian missionary, whose letters are the earliest documents contained in the New Testament and thus the first extant writings in Christian theology. more had capitalized on the conflict between the Sadducees and the Pharisees during his trial, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more leveraged the tension between the German princes and Rome. Drawing on ideas championed by WycliffeJohn Wycliffe (Wyckuffe) (A.D. 1330–31 Dec 1384) is regarded as the first Christian Reformer. He was instrumental in translating the Bible into Old English, combated superstition in the Church, held the Bible to be the ultimate arbiter of religious truth, opposed... more and Hus, in 1520, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more wrote three works addressed to the nobility of Germany, giving them a legitimate excuse to hold the churches in their domain independent of Rome and thus retain more power and money in Germany. In these three books, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more laid out his position on a number of key issues. He rejected the pope’s authority to rule the church. He rejected the sacramental status of ordination in favor of a priesthood of all believers, stating that clergyconsists of the priest, ministers and pastors of Christian churches. In the medieval church this term referred to both regular priest who were monks subject to a rule (regula) of a monastic order and secular priest who were not monks... more did not possess any special magical power and should not have an exalted social status. He rejected the sacramental status of confirmationis a term derived from the Latin word for “strengthening,” and is one of the seven sacraments of Roman Catholic Church and of the Eastern Orthodox Church. In Catholicism and Orthodoxy this sacrament involves anointing with oil and the laying... more, last rites, and marriage. He rejected the miracle of transubstantiationRoman Catholic doctrine, developed in the 13th century, that the bread and wine literally changes to become the literal body and blood of Christ when the priest pronounces consecration of these elements during the Mass. Protestants reject the dogma of... more of the Eucharist more in favor of the concept of consubstantiation which held that the blood and body of ChristDerived from a Greek term meaning anointed and is equivalent to the word “messiah” from Hebrew roots. The anointing references the act of installing a new king similar to the modern custom of crowning a king, so the term “Christ”... more was always present in the bread and wine. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more argued that individuals had intelligence and could understand the Bible themselves without the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more interpreting it for them. And last but not least, he laid out his theology of salvation by faithIn word for belief and faith is the same in Latin and most European languages, but in English faith often denotes an active believe, one that inspires action based on a belief. For Luther, faith and belief generally meant the... more alone. This pleased several of the princes (regional secularOf the world in contrast to the divine. more authorities) including Luther’s protector Frederick the WiseFrederick III (A.D. 1463–1525) was an Elector from Saxony who famously protected Martin Luther from the Holy Roman Emperor, the Pope, and others. Although Frederick remained Catholic throughout his life, he did seem to gradually move towards doctrines from the... more, the ruler of SaxonyRefers to two neighboring principalities in northern Germany, Ducal Saxony and Electoral Saxony. Luther lived in Wittenberg in Electoral Saxony that was ruled by the Elector Frederick (“the Wise”) who was favorable to the Reformation and was instrumental in its... more and one of the seven electors of Germany who selected the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more.
On January 4, 1521, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was officially excommunicated for heresyComes from a Greek term meaning “sect,” and was used by the early Church theologians to identify doctrines that they rejected as not orthodox. The term does not refer to unbelief but ideas held by some baptized Christian that was... more and for violating the majesty of the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more. However, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more had previously appealed to a general council of the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more, so many persons saw this as a papal act of overreach and an affront to the German churches. It is important to understand that Europe was Christendom and baptismFrom a Greek word meaning “to immerse;” and is an initiatory ritual washing whereby one becomes a member of the Christian community. It involves various symbolic meanings including, cleansing, the death and resurrection of Christ, and a sinners death and... more into the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more was synonymous with becoming a citizen. When a personDerived from the Latin term persona and the Greek term prosopon. It is a technical term in Christian theology for the concept that the Trinity consist of three separate persons united as one essence with one of the persons (the... more was excommunicated, he became an outlaw, subject to arrest and entitled to a trial. Because of the seriousness and public nature of the dispute, the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more did not want to rely on a local magistrate to try Luther’s case, so the imperial officials set his hearing to take place in the City of WormsThe German city where Luther was tried during an imperial diet before the emperor Charles V as a heretic and where Luther refused to recant at which point he became an outlaw under the Edict of Worms. more at the Imperial Dietis a parliamentary proceeding of the Holy Roman Emperor and his princes to determine imperial edits. Diets were called irregularly. Some of the most important diets were held at Augsburg in 1518, 1530, 1548 and 1555) and in Worms in1521. more (council). At first LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more refused to attend, remembering what had happened to Hus when he was summoned to Rome. Eventually he consented after he was granted safe passage to and from the national assembly. All along his journey, people flocked to cheer him on as a national hero.
At the Dietis a parliamentary proceeding of the Holy Roman Emperor and his princes to determine imperial edits. Diets were called irregularly. Some of the most important diets were held at Augsburg in 1518, 1530, 1548 and 1555) and in Worms in1521. more in WormsThe German city where Luther was tried during an imperial diet before the emperor Charles V as a heretic and where Luther refused to recant at which point he became an outlaw under the Edict of Worms. more, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more faced the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more Charles V(A.D. 1500–1558) Charles V ruled over an extensive Empire, including the Holy Roman Empire, the Kingdom of Spain and it’s American territories, the Netherlands, and much Italy. It was during his reign the Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Theses, and... more, the imperial lawyer and the VaticanAn independent city-state within the broader city of Rome. Vatican City is ruled by the Pope, the Catholic Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church. more legate. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was given twenty-four hours to respond to the lawyer’s demand that he recant his objectionable teachings or face extreme punishment (potential death). The next day, LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more echoed the words of Hus, proclaiming:
I cannot submit my faith either to the pope or the council, because it is as clear as the day that they have frequently erred and contradicted each other. Unless, therefore, I am convinced by the testimony of scripture, or by the clearest reasoning—unless I am persuaded by means of the passages I have quoted—and unless they render my conscience bound, by the word of God, I cannot and will not retract, for it is unsafe for a Christian to speak against his conscience. Here I stand, I can do no other, may God help me! Amen.2
However, Luther’s revolutionary flames turned into a raging, out-of-control fire. First, the rulers of small independent German states, referred to as knights, used Luther’s ideas to justify their revolt and attempted to seize Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more property in an effort to survive the high inflation brought on by the influx of gold and silver from the New World and by the increasing demand for goods and services. After this revolt was defeated, the peasants rose up. They were upset that rulers throughout the continent raised taxes on the poor peasants to compensate for high inflation. The peasants also faced higher food costs without a comparable increase in wages. They were also angered that serfdom had been reinstated during the labor shortage brought on by the bubonic plague and remained in place after the population had revived. Serfdom bound peasants to work the land where they lived, turning them into de facto slaves. The peasant revolt was massive and violent, and they used Luther’s words of equality and freedom as their rallying cry. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more was horrified. He came out of hiding and tried to pacify the horde. When that did not work, he told the civil authorities they were justified in using violence to sustain order. Tens of thousands of peasants were killed.
Free Will versus Predestination
The Catholic humanistA scholar during the Renaissance movement who sought to recover a more historically accurate understanding of ancient languages and literature, including pagan classics, the Bible and the writings of the early church fathers. Some of the most notable Christian humanists... more reformer Erasmus(A.D. 28 Dec 1466–12 Jul 1536) Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus is often referred to as the Prince of the Humanists. He was renowned as the greatest scholar of Northern Europe when the Protestant Reformation began. He advocated reform of the Catholic... more became concerned with the popularity of Luther’s ideas, so he published a book titled On the Freedom of the Will, stressing that we all have free will to decide whether we will choose to obey Gods commandments or choose evil; why would God even command anything if it were literally impossible for us to obey? LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more responded by writing his own book, On the Bondage of the Will, in which he argued that we rob God of his omnipotence if we contribute to our salvation in any way. He asked, “If we contribute to our salvation, then we are effectively saving ourselves. What’s the point of God then?”2
Creation of the Distinct Lutheran Church
Luther originally thought that a grassroots approach would be the best way to establish his vision of a new church structure. He thought that just hearing his gospel message of hope based on faithIn word for belief and faith is the same in Latin and most European languages, but in English faith often denotes an active believe, one that inspires action based on a belief. For Luther, faith and belief generally meant the... more and scripture alone and a priesthood of all believers would be sufficient to transform society. But the peasant revolt changed his mind. He realized that the uneducated populace had misinterpreted his writing. His original idea of simply teaching his gospel message needed more structure in order to be effective. So he changed his focus to convert the princes. Many of the princes were glad to oblige, particularly in northern Germany. The religion of the princeIn the 16th century Europe this term referred to a class of ruler in the Holy Roman Empire to whom local lords and barons owed feudal allegiance, and was not restricted to a son of a king. more became the state religion of territory, with the territorial leader becoming the head of the church in his domain. Consistory councils, consisting of lay and clerical members, assisted the territorial head in governing the churches in their region to establish a sermon-oriented church instead of a liturgical one. This process became known as the Magisterial ReformationA revolutionary religious movement during the 16th century Europe that initially sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church but led to the emergence of several groups breaking away for the Catholic church and establishing their own separate religions which came... more. LutherMartin Luther (A.D. 1483–1546) German theologian, pastor, professor at the University of Wittenberg, ex-monk, and founding figure of Protestantism. He was known for his doctrine of justification by faith alone and his insistence on distinguishing between Law and Gospel. more remained in the background providing theological support, writing hymns and a catechism, and translating the Bible into German.
Luther’s Magisterial ReformationA revolutionary religious movement during the 16th century Europe that initially sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church but led to the emergence of several groups breaking away for the Catholic church and establishing their own separate religions which came... more was successful largely because of the fact that the Holy Roman Empire(A.D. 962) The Holy Roman Empire emerges in the Germanic areas and Northern Italy with Otto I assuming the imperial crown descended from Charlemagne. more had no functional central government. The emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more, Charles V(A.D. 1500–1558) Charles V ruled over an extensive Empire, including the Holy Roman Empire, the Kingdom of Spain and it’s American territories, the Netherlands, and much Italy. It was during his reign the Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Theses, and... more, was distracted with his territorial disputes with France and the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more, along with the Ottoman Turks’ invasion on the eastern borders threatening Vienna, and he needed the support of the Lutheran princes. So he made concessions granting them power over religion in their respective domains. However, in 1529, after Charles V(A.D. 1500–1558) Charles V ruled over an extensive Empire, including the Holy Roman Empire, the Kingdom of Spain and it’s American territories, the Netherlands, and much Italy. It was during his reign the Martin Luther posted his Ninety-five Theses, and... more had conquered Italy, captured Rome, and put the popeThe Roman Catholic bishop of Rome who is regarded as the successor of the chief apostle, Peter, and as the Vicar of Christ is the holder of the Apostolic See and head of Christ’s church on earth. more under house arrest, he felt that he no longer needed the support of the Lutheran princes in Germany. Another council was called at the city of Spire which the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more did not even attend. There, the message was delivered that the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more had reneged on his previous concessions granting the princes control over the church in their territories. The Lutheran princes stormed out in protest and were called Protestants. The name stuck, and the various denominations that broke off from the Catholic Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more were thereafter called Protestants.
The Pandora’s box had been opened. Other groups broke away from the Catholic Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more in Switzerland, where the Anabaptist (re-baptizers) movement sprang up, and King Henry VIII(A.D. 26 Jun 1491–28 Jan 1547) Henry VIII became King of England in 1509. Initially he rejected the Protestant reformation movement and earned the title, Defender of the Faith, from the Catholic pope. He later broke from the Catholic Church... more proclaimed himself the head of the Churcha term translated from the Greek word “Ecclesia” which means an assembly called together and is sometime translated as a congregation. A church is an organized group of believers who adhere to a set of core beliefs. The Church in... more of England. The German Lutheran princes met in the town of Smalcald, formed a league to oppose the emperorRefers to the Emperor of the Roman Empire and its succeeding Byzantine Empire as well as the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, beginning with Charlemagne. more, and solicited other kings to join them. Over the next century, war and various treaties were made, eventually leading to the Peace of Westphalia(A.D. 1648) The Peace of Westphalia ends the Thirty Years’ War in Germany. It reinstitutes the Peace of Augsburg and includes various forms of the Reformed tradition, but not the Anabaptists, as an acceptable religion, in addition to Catholicism and... more in 1648, which established an enduring form of religious-political freedom.
by Martin Luther
The Bondage of the Will is fundamental to an understanding of the primary doctrines of the Reformation. In these pages, Luther gives extensive treatment to what he saw as the heart of the gospel. Free will was no academic question to Luther; the whole gospel of the grace of God, he believed, was bound up with it and stood or fell according to the way one understood it. Luther affirms our total inability to save ourselves and the sovereignty of divine grace in our salvation.
by Sinclair B. Ferguson
Since the days of the early church, Christians have wrestled with the relationship between law and gospel. If, as the apostle Paul says, salvation is by grace and the law cannot save, what relevance does the law have for Christians today?
What if the greatest crisis of our time wasn’t political, economic, or even scientific, but spiritual? The Human Quest for Meaning, presents an unflinching, scholarly, and soul-searching excavation of humanity’s deepest longings. This work cuts through the fog of postmodern relativism and the sterile worship of science to confront the core dilemma of our time: why does a civilization without God still hunger for transcendence? Drawing from ethnological studies, ancient texts, and forgotten philosophical wisdom, Hallstrom traces the arc of religious and philosophical history; not to convert, but to clarify. In a world obsessed with novelty, this book dares to remember.
In this book, readers will delve into the surprising belief systems of some of the most primitive cultures, exploring why they revered a moral Supreme Being contrary to modern theories of religious evolution. The text also revisits the foundations of Christianity, not as dogma, but as a cultural and metaphysical force that shaped the Western mind. The book further explores how modern secularism has gradually replaced meaning with a mechanistic worldview and why this replacement is now collapsing. It presents concise, accessible summaries of major world religions, from Hinduism and Buddhism to Islam, Sikhism, Taoism, and Zoroastrianism to help broaden a reader’s global spiritual literacy.
In the face of cultural amnesia, this work offers clarity and equips readers with the tools to forge their own enduring philosophy of life. Hallstrom writes with scholarly rigor but aims for accessibility, avoiding dry academic jargon while still delivering a serious intellectual exploration that reads smoothly like a story. While books on religion and philosophy are not new, Hallstrom brings a refreshingly countercultural lens.
Whether you’re a skeptic, a seeker, or a believer, The Human Quest for Meaning will challenge your assumptions, deepen your worldview, and perhaps even awaken something within you.
Available in hardback, audio, paperback and e‑book.
by C.S. Lewis
Mere Christianity explores the core beliefs of Christianity by providing an unequaled opportunity for believers and nonbelievers alike to hear a powerful, rational case for the Christian faith. Our moral consciousness and moral judgements are proof to the human race that a moral being exists—God. “C.S. Lewis is the ideal persuader for the half-convinced, for the good man who would like to be a Christian but finds his intellect getting in the way.” — Anthony Burgess, New York Times Book Review
The Ninety-Five Theses and Other Writings
by Martin Luther (Author), William R. Russell (Editor, Translator, Introduction)
For the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, a new translation of Martin Luther’s most famous works by leading Luther scholar and pastor William Russell. This volume contains selections from Martin Luther’s most evocative and provocative writings, freshly translated, for the 21st century. These documents, which span the Reformer’s literary career, point to the enduring and flexible character of his central ideas. As Luther’s reform proposals emerged, they coalesced around some basic priorities, which he delivered to wide-ranging audiences–writing for children, preaching in congregations, formulating academic treatises, penning letters to family and friends, counter-punching critics, summarizing Biblical books, crafting confessions of faith, and more. This book demonstrates that range and provides entry points, for non-specialists and specialists alike, into the thought and life of the epoch-defining, fascinating, and controversial Martin Luther. With attention to the breadth of his literary output, it draws from his letters, sermons, popular writings, and formal theological works. This breadth allows readers to encounter Luther the man: the sinner and the saint, the public activist and the private counselor, the theologian and the pastor. These writings possess a practical, accessible arc, as Luther does not write only for specialists and church officials, but he applies his chief insights to the “real-life” issues that faced his rather wide variety of audiences.
Martin Luther: the Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World
by Eric Metaxas
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas comes a brilliant and inspiring biography of the most influential man in modern history, Martin Luther, in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. On All Hallow’s Eve in 1517, a young monk named Martin Luther posted a document he hoped would spark an academic debate, but that instead ignited a conflagration that would forever destroy the world he knew. Five hundred years after Luther’s now famous Ninety-five Theses appeared, Eric Metaxas, acclaimed biographer of the bestselling Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy and Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery, paints a startling portrait of the wild figure whose adamantine faith cracked the edifice of Western Christendom and dragged medieval Europe into the future. Written in riveting prose and impeccably researched, Martin Luther tells the searing tale of a humble man who, by bringing ugly truths to the highest seats of power, caused the explosion whose sound is still ringing in our ears. Luther’s monumental faith and courage gave birth to the ideals of liberty, equality, and individualism that today lie at the heart of all modern life.
The Golden Thread: A History of the Western Tradition, Volume I: The Ancient World and Christendom
by James Hankins and Allen C. Guelzo
"...a monumental work of reclamation and revival...The Golden Thread comes as a history, an argument, a treasure hoard." — The Wall Street Journal. It is a sweeping, resource-rich history of the ancient world and Christendom—designed for students and lifelong learners alike, and faithful to the enduring legacy of the Western tradition. This is Volume I of a two-part series tracing the story of Western civilization from antiquity to the modern age. Where do the threads that form the Western tradition originate, and how were they woven together over the two and a half millennia before A.D. 1500? What are the sources of our modern ideas about science, freedom, equality, law, good government, and virtue? These are the questions explored in The Golden Thread, Volume I: The Ancient World and Christendom. The story begins with the seminal culture of the classical Greeks and moves through the Hellenization of the east following the conquests of Alexander the Great. Hankins then narrates the rise and dominance of Rome and the fusion of Greco-Roman and Judea-Christian cultures in the Christian empire of the fourth century AD. The volume follows the history of Christendom from the fall of the Western Roman Empire, charts its centuries-long rivalry with the Islamic world, and culminates in the emergence of European civilization in the Middle Age and Renaissance. Written by two of the most distinguished historians of our time. It includes nearly 1000 curated images—sculptures, paintings, and artifacts—from the vaults of the West’s finest cultural institutions. Readers are not merely told what happened, but shown what was created—page after page alive with the rich architecture, sculpture, music, and painting and maps that gave visible form to the West’s most enduring aspirations.
by Hans J. Hillerbrand
This important collection—now revised and updated—brings together the works and writings of the revolutionary minds behind the Protestant Reformation and remains a major resource for teachers, students, and history buffs alike. Over the decades, modern scholarship has shed new light on this tumultuous period, raising probing questions and providing new connections that have radically changed our understanding and outlook. With this updated edition of this essential work—now including texts written by women as well as entries dealing with popular religion—modern viewpoints are cogently addressed, while the scholarly integrity that has made this book a revered classic has been scrupulously maintained. Throughout, Hans J. Hillerbrand’s basic assumption remains consistent: religion—no matter how dependent on societal forces—must be seen as the pivotal element in the story of the sixteenth century.
The Unquenchable Flame: Discovering the Heart of the Reformation
by Michael Reeves
Burning pyres, nuns on the run, stirring courage, and comic relief: the Protestant Reformation is a gripping tale, packed with drama. But what motivated the Reformers? And what were they really like? The Unquenchable Flame, a lively, accessible, and fully informative introduction to the Reformation by Michael Reeves, brings to life the movement’s most colorful characters (Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, The Puritans, etc.), examines their ideas, and shows the profound and personal relevance of Reformation thinking for today. Also included are a lengthy Reformation timeline, a map of key places in the Reformation and further reading suggestions.
by Diarmaid MacCulloch
Best Books of the Year 2004, National Book Critics Circle Award Winner, The National Book Critics Circle Award–winning history of the Reformation—from the New York Times bestselling author of Christianity
At a time when men and women were prepared to kill—and be killed—for their faith, the Protestant Reformation tore the Western world apart. Acclaimed as the definitive account of these epochal events, Diarmaid MacCulloch’s award-winning history brilliantly re-creates the religious battles of priests, monarchs, scholars, and politicians—from the zealous Martin Luther and his Ninety-Five Theses to the polemical John Calvin to the radical Igantius Loyola, from the tortured Thomas Cranmer to the ambitious Philip II. Drawing together the many strands of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, and ranging widely across Europe and the New World, MacCulloch reveals as never before how these dramatic upheavals affected everyday lives—overturning ideas of love, sex, death, and the supernatural, and shaping the modern age.
Reformations: The Early Modern World, 1450-1650
by Carlos M. N. Eire
A lively, expansive history of the Protestant and Catholic Reformations and the momentous changes they set in motion. This fast-paced survey of Western civilization’s transition from the Middle Ages to modernity brings that tumultuous period vividly to life. Carlos Eire, popular professor and gifted writer, chronicles the two-hundred-year era of the Renaissance and Reformation with particular attention to issues that persist as concerns in the present day. Eire connects the Protestant and Catholic Reformations in new and profound ways, and he demonstrates convincingly that this crucial turning point in history not only affected people long gone, but continues to shape our world and define who we are today. The book focuses on the vast changes that took place in Western civilization between 1450 and 1650, from Gutenberg’s printing press and the subsequent revolution in the spread of ideas to the close of the Thirty Years’ War. Eire devotes equal attention to the various Protestant traditions and churches as well as to Catholicism, skepticism, and secularism, and he takes into account the expansion of European culture and religion into other lands, particularly the Americas and Asia. He also underscores how changes in religion transformed the Western secular world. A book created with students and nonspecialists in mind, Reformations is an inspiring, provocative volume for any reader who is curious about the role of ideas and beliefs in history.
by Timothy Paul Jones
Have you ever wondered who wrote the books in the Bible and how they ended up together? Has anyone ever told you that some books were cut out of the Bible or that the stories of Jesus in the Gospels can’t be trusted? In this book, dive into the fascinating account of the most amazing and best-preserved book the world has ever seen. Dr. Timothy Paul Jones gives easy-to-understand answers to popular questions on the Bible s reliability and accuracy. It explains how the Old Testament and New Testament came to us, the reasons the New Testament books were chosen, tell the compelling stories behind Polycarp, Serapion, John Wycliffe, and William Tyndale, provides fascinating facts about the Bible and definitions of popular terms.
Christian Theology: An Introduction 6th Edition
by Alister E. McGrath
“The genius of Alister E. McGrath is his remarkable ability to write in a clear, concise, and lucid manner that draws both teachers and students to participate with the great thinkers of the Christian tradition, past and present. Education and illumination are the abundant fruits of this massive, well-organized text, which is sure to appeal to a wide range of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox audiences. For this we are indebted to the author.” Dennis Ngien, Professor of Systematic Theology, Tyndale University College and Seminary, Toronto, Canada. “For sheer comprehensiveness, clarity, and coherence, Alister McGrath has produced the definitive textbook. Always accurate and engaging, students are gently introduced to the gift of Theology in a memorable way.” Ian S. Markham, Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary.
by Alister E. McGrath
Regarded as the leading text in Christian theology for the last 25 years, Alister E. McGrath’s The Christian Theology Reader is now available in a new 5th edition featuring completely revised and updated content. It brings together more than 350 readings from over 200 sources that chart 2,000 years of Christian history, situates each reading within the appropriate historical and theological context with its own introduction, commentary, and study questions, includes new readings on world Christianity and feminist, liberation, and postcolonial theologies, as well as more selections by female theologians and theologians from the developing world, and contains additional pedagogical features, such as new discussion questions and case studies, and a robust website with new videos by the author to aid student learning. It is designed to function as a stand-alone volume, or as a companion to Christian Theology: An Introduction, 6th edition, for a complete overview of the subject.
Church History in Plain Language
by Bruce Shelley and Marshall Shelley
Bruce Shelley's classic history of the church brings the story of global Christianity into the twenty-first century. Like a skilled screenwriter, Shelley begins each chapter with three elements: characters, setting, plot. Taking readers from the early centuries of the church up through the modern era he tells his readers a story of actual people, in a particular situation, taking action or being acted upon, provides a window into the circumstances and historical context, and from there develops the story of a major period or theme of Christian history. Covering recent events, this book also: Details the rapid growth of evangelical and Pentecostal Christianity in the southern hemisphere; Addresses the decline in traditional mainline denominations; Examines the influence of technology on the spread of the gospel; Discusses how Christianity intersects with other religions in countries all over the world. For this fifth edition, Marshall Shelley brought together a team of historians, historical theologians, and editors to revise and update this father's classic text. The new edition adds important stories of the development of Christianity in Asia, India, and Africa, both in the early church as well as in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. It also highlights the stories of women and non-Europeans who significantly influenced the development of Christianity but whose contributions are often overlooked in previous overviews of church history. This concise book provides an easy-to-read guide to church history with intellectual substance. The new edition of Church History in Plain Language promises to set a new standard for readable church history.
Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years
by Diarmaid MacCulloch
The New York Times bestseller and definitive history of Christianity for our time—from the award-winning author of The Reformation and Silence. A product of electrifying scholarship conveyed with commanding skill, Diarmaid MacCulloch's Christianity goes back to the origins of the Hebrew Bible and encompasses the globe. It captures the major turning points in Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox history and fills in often neglected accounts of conversion and confrontation in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. MacCulloch introduces us to monks and crusaders, heretics and reformers, popes and abolitionists, and discover Christianity's essential role in shaping human history and the intimate lives of men and women. And he uncovers the roots of the faith that galvanized America, charting the surprising beliefs of the founding fathers, the rise of the Evangelical movement and of Pentecostalism, and the recent crises within the Catholic Church. Bursting with original insights and a great pleasure to read, this monumental religious history will not soon be surpassed.
The Story of the Christian Church
by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut
No institution has spanned more centuries and more continents than the Christian church. Its dramatic story is one of bloodshed and peace, corruption and purity. Here Dr. Hurlbut retells this story in an objective, concise, and clear style, emphasizing the spirit of the church, its growth and maturation, and the causes leading to historic events and their resulting influence. Accurate, up-to-date, and vividly presented, Hurlbut's Story of the Christian Church traces the six general periods of church history from A.D. 30 to the present day. A concluding section, covering the period since Dr. Hurlbut's death, has been added in this revised edition, thus giving the reader a complete, easily understood overview of the Christian church. Designed for two audiences, this book contains outlines and references in the margins to aid the student or teacher along with a continuous narrative and numerous illustrations for the general reader. It is ideal for Sunday school use, since it includes suggested outlines and review questions for each chapter at the end of the book.
The Story of Christianity, Vol. 2: The Reformation to the Present Day
by Justo L. Gonzalez
From Justo L. Gonzalez, author of the acclaimed three-volume History of Christian Thought, The Story of Christianity Volume II: The Reformation to the Present Day is the fully revised and updated second volume of The Story of Christianity. Gonzalez’s astute scholarship, lucid prose, and impassioned focus tell the narrative history of Christianity, beginning with the Protestant Reformation of the sixteenth century and leading all the way up to present day.
History Of The Christian Church (The Complete Eight Volumes In One)
by Philip Schaff
A monumental work tracing the development of Christianity from its inception to the modern era. Spanning eight volumes condensed into one comprehensive edition, Schaff meticulously examines the growth of Christian doctrine, the evolution of church institutions, and the profound impact of key figures and events on global religious history. Through detailed scholarship and engaging narrative, Schaff provides readers with a thorough understanding of Christianity's journey through the centuries, making this work an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
by Will and Ariel Durant
A concise survey of the culture and civilization of mankind, The Lessons of History is the result of a lifetime of research from Pulitzer Prize–winning historians Will and Ariel Durant. With their accessible compendium of philosophy and social progress, the Durants take us on a journey through history, exploring the possibilities and limitations of humanity over time. Juxtaposing the great lives, ideas, and accomplishments with cycles of war and conquest, the Durants reveal the towering themes of history and give meaning to our own.
1 The facts of this chapter are widely known. Regardless, the author gives special acknowledgment to the following sources: Andrew C. Fix, The Renaissance, Reformation and the Rise of Nations, (The Teaching Company, 2009), Phillip Cary, Luther: Gospel, Law, and Reformation, (The Teaching Company, 2004); Brad S. Gregory, The History of Christianity in the Reformation Era, (The Teaching Company, 2001); Molly Worthen, The History of Christianity II: From the Reformation to the Modern Megachurch, (The Teaching Company, 2017); B. H. Roberts, Outlines of Ecclesiastical History, (Deseret Book, 1979).
2 B.H. Roberts, Outlines of Ecclesiastical History, (Deseret Book, 1979), 233.
Wartburg Castle in Eisenach (Thuringia, Germany), Photograph by A. Savin, 2020, [PD Wikipedia Free Art License]
Portrait of Cardinal Albrecht of Brandenburg, by Lucas Cranach the Elder aft. 1529, Jagdschloss Grunewald Collection, [PD-US]
Martin Luther in front of Thomas Cajetan, by Ferdinand Pauwels, 1872, Wartburg-Stiftung Collection, [PD-US]
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