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The Reformation

The Reformation. Martin Luther. The Beginning. During the Middle Ages the Catholic Church dominated religious life Critics argued the church was far too focused on gaining… political power wealth. Causes. The Renaissance had focused on individuality and secular ideas

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The Reformation

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  1. The Reformation Martin Luther

  2. The Beginning • During the Middle Ages the Catholic Church dominated religious life • Critics arguedthe church was far too focused on gaining… • political power • wealth

  3. Causes • The Renaissance had focused on individuality and secular ideas • Gutenberg’s printing press had spread those secular beliefs • Rulers began to challenge the political power of the church • Germany was heavily divided • Merchants in the North resented having to pay taxes to the church in Rome

  4. Criticisms • Church full of corruption • Being a patron of the arts was $$$$$$ • Lavish personal pleasures $$$$$$$ • Wars $$$$$$$ • Pope Alexander VI fathered several children • Secular v. Spiritual • Under-educated clergy • Clergy would drink, gamble & marry

  5. Calls for Reform • People began to hold higher standards for the clergy • They decided the Pope had no right to secular power • The Bible was the supreme power, not the clergy

  6. Martin Luther • 1483-1546 • Monk • Teacher • Craftsman • Father of the Reformation • Claimed he just wanted to be a good Christian…not lead a rebellion.

  7. Indulgences • Luther spoke out against Friar Johann Tetzel • Tetzel was raising money for St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome by selling indulgences • Indulgence = A pardon from sin • They released sinners from a penalty imposed by a priest as punishment for sins

  8. St. Peter’s Cathedral

  9. 95 Theses • Luther wrote 95 statements attacking the “pardon merchants” • 10/31/1517 he posted these in Wittenberg • His words were copied and spread all over Germany

  10. Luther’s Teachings • Faith Alone • Bible is the word of God; God is supreme • All people are equal; they can interpret the Bible for themselves

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