Who was Martin Luther? What was his contribution to the Protestant Reformation?
Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a German monk, priest and professor of theology. He wrote ‘Ninety Five Theses’ criticising many of the practices and rituals of the Roman Catholic Church.
Luther taught that salvation is not earned by good deeds but received only as a free gift of God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ as redeemer from sin.
He believed in the infallibility of the Bible but challenged the authority of the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.Luther’s theses were printed and distributed widely in Germany. His translation of the New Testament sold '5000 copies within a few weeks. . A National Church was established in Germany and prayers began to be held in German language. It led to the beginning of the Reformation Movement in Europe.