In the early 16 century the Roman catholic church and by extension its clergy came under heavy criticism. This was due to their financial, legal dealing; as well as change in popular opinion to the convention Catholic concepts of salvation. Along with other contributing factors led to the Protestant Reformation. Some of the contributing factors included criticism of the church, the teachings of Martin Luther, England’s shift towards Protestantism, and Calvinism. As stated earlier the growing resentment towards the basic tenants of Catholicism helped Protestant Reformation appeal to various groups across Europe. We will examine the contributing factors and how the led to mass appeal across Europe in a more exhaustive manner in the paragraphs …show more content…
That distinction belongs to Martin Luther an ordained priest, whose meticulous study of ST. Paul’s letters led him to some profound insights. Martin Luther’s new understanding is summed up in the five Solas. “These five statements sum up what lies at the heart of the protestant belief; By Grace alone, Through faith alone, In Christ alone, According to scripture alone, For God’s glory alone” (Protestantism.co.uk, 2012). Furthermore, while Luther was dealing with this spiritual epiphany the catholic church on the macro and micro level were selling indulgences to finance their selfish pursuits. An indulgence was nothing more than a document signed by the pope or other church official that was a substitute for penance. This deeply troubled the pious Luther who was prompted by the indulgences to write his famed 95 theses. Consequently, Charles V called Martin Luther to appear before the Diet of Worms to recant his statement. To Which Martin Luther responded “Unless I am convicted of error by the testimony of Scripture or by manifest evidence...I cannot and will not retract, for we must never act contrary to our conscience” (Linder,2010). His trial at Worms subsequent speech rang as relatable truth all over