1. The Reformation Begins Martin Luther Born 1483 Monk in the Catholic Church publicly argues that the Pope (1517) can’t decide what’s required for Heaven. Reformation = Martin Luther sought to reform the church However, the movement led to Protestantism (new churches) What led to the Reformation? Desiderius Erasmus – part of movement “Christian humanism” Use reason to become better Christians He studied ancient Christian works for inspiration Goal = translate Bible into the vernacular (everyday lang) Argues= people need to lead good lives religious services are not enough

2. Problems in the Church Taxed people heavy Some bishops behave like kings (palaces, art, and jobs) In some villages, priests couldn’t read or give a sermon Anger over “Sale of Indulgences” pardon by church 4 sins Money used to build St. Peters in Rome Martin Luther angered over Church selling (1500s) God’s forgiveness / this was unholy to M.L. John Wycliffe - An English priest (1370s) Challenged Pope “only Jesus Christ is the power above the Christian not the Pope” Englishmen learn Christ's law best in English. Moses heard Gods law in his own tongue; so did Christ's apostles. After Wycliffe died followers translated the bible into English

3. Martin Luther Visited Rome shocked at the behavior of the clergy. Church Doctrine: Saved = good works + sacraments Luther: studies Bible & learns that faith not works = salvation salvation is a gift from God, not earned through works In 1517, Nails 95 Theses to church door in Wittenberg Catholic Church “it’s a dangerous message for priests” Excommunicated = couldn’t partake of sacraments Lutheranism Faith in Jesus not good works = salvation Bible final source of truth about god not church ministers Church = all believers not just the clergy

4. Lutheranism Some of Europe’s Kings realized they could increase their power by supporting Lutheranism against the Catholic Church Many German rulers became Lutherans for religious and political reasons = win-win When German rulers became Lutheran they seized church land, and collected income from these new properties. German rulers became more powerful /Catholic Church less Charles V went to war w/ German rulers Agreement = German rulers decide to be Catholic or Lutheran Result = most Northern Germany Lutheran/Southern Catholic

5. John Calvin 1500s Geneva, Switzerland Message: God’s will is absolute and decides everything in advance Predestination – god decides heaven or hell Why be good? Neither kings nor Bishops should control the church Congregations should choose elders and ministers to run the church