Protestant Reformation Dbq

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The Protestant Reformation took place from 1517 to 1648. The Protestant Reformation had followed Martin Luther’s philosophy that human beings were sinful by nature. The Protestant Reformation was put into the act because people were tired on how the church used their power. The people that were to donate money toward the church were the ones whose sins were forgiven and had a “definite” key to heaven. One very influential religious leader includes John Calvin, who was a protestant reformer. He was a huge follower of Luther’s teaching and agreed with Luther’s views on sin and salvation thus believing that if you are to sin you mean it and that you are to only be forgiven if you are truly apologetic. John Calvin also believed in the concept of …show more content…

For example, Martin Luther wrote the 95 theses, which are 95 statements that are to help to be the better version of the Christian faith. These theses were rejected and seen as an insult by the Pope, which led to Martin Luther’s ban and Luther creating his own for of religion, Lutheranism. Lutheranism, very similar to the Catholic faith, was more reformed and allowed for less corruption and a more profound justification. Some of Luther’s theses include, “Because, by works of love, love grows and a man becomes a better man; whereas, by indulgences, he does not become a better man, but only escapes certain penalties.” and “Any Christian whatsoever, who is truly repentant, enjoys plenary remission from penalty and guilt, and this is given him without letters of indulgence.” (Syllabus, 25). These two theses show the fraudulence that was occurring in the church, especially the Pope giving people “a key to heaven” if they were to purchase in indulgence. To sum up, Martin Luther helped spread the Protestant Reformation in order for a better and more fair, religious experience