

An Introduction to Martin Luther
May 13, 2024
Explore Martin Luther's transition from monk to reformer, his key ideas in late medieval theology, and the impact of the printing press on the Protestant Reformation. Delve into debates on realism, nominalism, and mysticism in medieval theology, highlighting Luther's spiritual practices and his lasting legacy in shaping the church.
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Luther's Path to Monkhood
- Luther briefly attended law school but left after a near-death experience during a thunderstorm.
- He cried out to Saint Anne, vowing to become a monk if spared, and entered St. Augustine's monastery in Erfurt.
Luther's Struggle with Sin
- Luther's tortured conscience and scrupulosity stemmed from his belief in God's perfect justice and his awareness of his own sin.
- His fear was a logical response to his theology, recognizing the disparity between God's standards and human imperfection.
Luther's Confession Struggles
- Luther spent hours in confession, attempting to confess every single sin he could remember, due to his understanding of sin's pervasiveness.
- His superior, Johann von Staupitz, offered guidance, emphasizing Christ's mercy and grace found in the cross.