The Reformation: A Time of Radical Change
The Reformation was a time of radical change in politics and social norms, as well as religion. It took place in several regions and over a period of a few decades.
The Protestant Reformation: Reforming Doctrines and Challenging Authority
The Protestants reformed the doctrines of the Catholic Church in order to promote personal faith in Jesus Christ and the grace of God, as opposed to works that would earn their salvation (such as pilgrimages or the sale of indulgences). They also sought to remove the authority of popes, bishops, and priests over religion.
The Key Reformers of the Reformation
There were a number of different reformers who contributed to the movement, including Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, and John Calvin. Some of them had been excommunicated by the Roman Catholic Church, while others were still members.
The Spread of the Reformation
They began to publish and discuss their views about faith in 1517, with the first debates held in Heidelberg and Leipzig. As a result, the Reformation spread throughout Germany and Europe.
The Political Impact of the Reformation
As a political movement, the Reformation was supported by many princes and nobles. In England, for example, king Henry VIII repudiated papal authority and established the Anglican Church. This was a political move that allowed him to establish the rights of his heirs over land and other assets that had been possessed by the Church for centuries, and it led to a significant increase in the revenue of the kingdom.
The Influence of the Protestants on State Power
The political influence of the Protestants was widespread, and a number of states that had long been dominated by the Catholic Church began to turn away from it. In Scotland, a number of princes and nobles who had been feuding with each other for years joined the cause of the Reformation in order to gain more autonomy and power.
Rejection and Restoration: Motivations of the Reformers
While these nobles were supporting the Protestant movement as a political tool, some were also doing so because they disagreed with the theology of their local clergy or felt that their religious practice was being eroded by the priests. In addition, some of the leaders of these movements believed that they were reclaiming their ancient Christian faith by rejecting the Roman Catholic Church.
The Diverse Movements of the Reformation
These movements were often referred to as Anabaptist, spiritualist, and evangelical. Each of these movements had its own distinct character, but they all shared some common characteristics, such as opposition to church organization, an appeal to the individual, and a desire to restore pristine Christianity.
Persecution and Enduring Impact
They were often persecuted by their own countrymen, but they won support in other lands and founded many new groups. Some of these groups, such as Mennonites and Baptists, are still around today.
The Mass Movement of the Reformation
Although the Reformation began with Martin Luther, it did not become a mass movement until the 1520s. In that year, Luther posted his ninety-five theses on the door of the castle church in Wittenberg. He did not receive state support until 1525, but he was protected by Elector Frederick the Wise.
Continued Influence: Theological Debates and Spreading Ideas
Other theologians began to follow his lead, and soon they were all presenting their views of faith in theological debates throughout Europe.
