

#140 The Convenient Morality of the Protestant Reformers - Joe Heschmeyer
16 snips Jan 23, 2025
Explore the complex motivations of key Protestant Reformers like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and John Knox. Challenge the myth of their martyrdom, particularly Calvin's role in executing Servetus. Delve into Luther's bold defiance of papal authority after his 95 Theses. Examine Knox's radical opposition to female authority, highlighting contradictions in the Protestant movement. Finally, uncover the intricate relationship between gender, power, and ideology in the context of the Reformation.
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Luther at the Diet of Worms
- Luther's famous "Here I Stand" quote from the Diet of Worms is often cited as an example of his unwavering faith.
- However, his actions and words leading up to this moment tell a different story.
Luther's Changing Stance
- In 1518, Luther wrote to Pope Leo X, promising to abide by his verdict on the indulgence controversy.
- Yet, before receiving the verdict, Luther privately declared he would not accept it and publicly burned papal documents.
Luther's Duplicity
- Upon receiving the papal bull condemning his views, Luther privately called the Pope the Antichrist but publicly feigned respect.
- Days later, he denounced the Pope as Antichrist and appealed for a general council, contradicting his earlier stance.