95 Theses

Martin Luther wrote his 95 Theses in response to the Catholic Church's mayn abuses, chief among them the selling of indulgences as well as many other financial scandals. Recognized as the greatest factor in the schism between the Protestant and Catholic churches, Luther's 95 Theses would create a rift in Christianity that would never be completely healed. The reaction of society was split in response to the Theses: some embraced Luther's ideas and others condemned them. Eventually, the two sides would come to peace with one another, but not before enduring many conflicts, including a bloody war. Luther's 95 Theses offer a unique look into religion in the medieval times, portraying it as somewhat of a hypocrite. A priest would preach salvation for all and God's willingness to forgive at a sermon then walk out the door and convince the naive people of the time that the only way to obtain salvation was to purchase indulgences, or pardons. Luther's 95 Theses, while ripping apart Catholicism at its core, fortified the church agaisnt further grievances and led to a healing process that would mold the church into what it is today.