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The Positive Impact Of The Reformation In The 16th Century

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The Reformation during the 16th century was something that had always been thought of and what is expected that had a positive impact on many people. Reformers that were in the medieval church like St. Francis of Assisi, Valdes, Jan Hus, and John Wycliff had thought about the aspects of the church and throughout life before 1517. During the 16th century, figures such as Erasmus of Rotterdam who was the chief proponent of liberal Catholic reform, had an ongoing concern before Luther told his Ninety-Five Theses. From “Martin Luther” the aspect of the beginning of the section is very intriguing, offering how the impact had caused a positive change: “Luther having experienced this new conviction, it is not surprising that the extravagant claims surrounding the sale of indulgences in 1517 provoked him to the public. The form and text of that protest became known as the ’95 Theses’.” (“Martin Luther” 427). From his objection to the claim, the pope had then relieved the sins of Luther and the Catholic church. The Reformation was a major change in the Catholic church due to the change of how people bettered themselves. Luther was unhappy that the Catholic church offered an indulgence for pay, such as, “As for myself, let me say that I, too, am a doctor and a preacher-yes, and as learned and experienced as any of those who act so high and mighty” (“Martin Luther” 428). By following the sacraments, many were able to better their relationship with Jesus. “Shall we frivolously despise this might, blessing, power, and fruit- especially we who would be pastors and preachers?” (“Martin Luther” 429). Martin Luther is expressing with powers and questioning what one should do with pastors and preachers and how one can better that problem to come up with a solution. The following quote sticks out due to the fact that the quote is setting guidelines to how many should go about living their life, “Sixteenth Rule. In the same way, we must be on our guard that by talking much and with much insistence of faith, without any distinction and explanation occasion be not given to the people to be lazy and slothful in works, whether before faith is formed in charity or after” (“Saint Ignatius of Loyola” 446). One can about their life just

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