Part ISeptember 30, 2009

In the 1520’s, a powerful religious movement began in Saxony in Germany.

It spread rapidly throughout northern Europe

It affected society, politics and the spiritual lives of men and women

It was a broad revolt against the superstitions on the medieval church.

The Protestant Reformation took place at a time of sharp conflict with the newly emerging nation-states.

These nation-states were looking for conformity and centralization.

Many of the towns were concerned about the loss of local authority and looked to the reformation as an ally against the loss of their power

The reformation broke out first in the imperial free cities of Germany and Switzerland.

The protestant movement attracted followers from different areas: Economically prosperous members of local

guilds Those with a history of opposition to the

encroaching government authority of nation-states

People who felt bullied or pushed around by government

Popular Religions Movements/Criticism of Church

Many believed that the Catholic Church no longer provided a foundation for religious piety

The movement towards lay control of a more simple church was beginning

Diet of Worms: 1521 (Page 360 German nobility presents the emperor with a list of

church abuses

People were pushing for a church that got back to stressing piety and a more direct connection to god

The laity was demanding good preaching in the vernacular.

Communities were beginning to protest church abuses and new nation-states were protesting the interference of the church in “state” affairs.

Martin Luther was born and raised in Germany.

He entered the priesthood in 1505 after a promise he made during a storm

After his ordination, he began to agree with many of the criticisms of the church

Justification by Faith Alone Luther was disturbed by the conflict

between his own sinfulness and the perfect righteousness required for salvation that no human could ever attain

He believed that you could be righteous by your full belief and trust in Jesus Christ.

He didn’t believe that good deeds themselves brought you salvation