Master Guide Church Heritage Practice Exam

The initiation of major reform through the 95 Theses is credited to Martin Luther, who posted them on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517. This act is widely recognized as a pivotal moment in the Protestant Reformation. Luther's theses challenged the Catholic Church's practices, particularly the sale of indulgences, which were financial contributions made by believers in exchange for the forgiveness of sins.

By articulating these concerns, Luther sparked a widespread debate about church practices and theology, leading to significant changes in how Christianity was understood and practiced in Europe. His emphasis on salvation by faith alone and the authority of Scripture over church tradition became foundational principles of Protestantism. Luther's actions mobilized reform-minded individuals and movements, establishing him as a central figure in the Reformation era.

The other individuals mentioned were influential in their own right but did not initiate reform through the 95 Theses. John Calvin was significant for his development of Reformed theology, Henry VIII's actions led to the English Reformation primarily over issues of authority and marriage, and Thomas Cranmer was instrumental in shaping the liturgical practices of the Church of England. However, it was Luther who directly initiated the reform movement leading from his theological objections expressed in the