Lutheranism
Definition
Lutheranism is a branch of Protestant Christianity that follows the teachings of Martin Luther, who initiated the Protestant Reformation in 16th century Europe. It emphasizes justification 'by faith alone'.
Analogy
Imagine you're at a restaurant (the Roman Catholic Church) where you've always followed their set menu (religious practices). One day, you decide you want something different - so you create your own dish (Lutheranism), using some ingredients from their menu but also adding your own twist.
Related terms
Martin Luther: A German professor of theology who challenged certain practices of the Roman Catholic Church leading to Protestant Reformation.
95 Theses: These were arguments written by Martin Luther against what he saw as abuses in the practice of selling indulgences by the Catholic church.
Protestant Reformation: A movement in 16th-century Europe aimed at reforming some doctrines and practices of Western Christianity; it resulted in division into Protestant and Catholic churches.
"Lutheranism" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (7)
- What was a key difference between Lutheranism and Anabaptism?
- How did Calvin's teachings differ from Lutheranism, influencing the continuation of Protestant reform?
- What marked the end to most religious wars in Europe by recognizing Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Calvinism?
- How did Emperor Charles V's approach to dealing with Lutheranism differ from his son Philip II’s tactics addressing Calvinism?
- Which treaty ended religious wars in Germany and acknowledged Lutheranism as a legal religion?
- What policy implemented by German princes allowed them to choose between Lutheranism and Catholicism?
- What technology greatly accelerated the spread of Lutheranism across Europe in the sixteenth century?
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