Who Were the Protestant Reformers?


Historical Background of Reformation

Architectural “arms race” prompted by Muslim capture of Constantinople (Istanbul) 1453

Exchange of ideas through trade

Printing press made sale of literature profitable

Renaissance art and literature

Discovery of new world starting 1492

Regional princes losing interest in sending money to Rome and taking orders from Rome


How Does Change Happen in the Catholic Church?

Who? –Bishops (not popular democracy)

How? –Councils

Why? –New challenges

Limits?


Excerpt from Martin Luther: Driven to Defiance (2002)

23:40-25:30 Sense that salvation was unachievable

25:30-32:30 Mission to Rome

32:30-34:08 Profiterring and indulgences

More info on IMDB.com and PBS.com