The Protestant Reformation Flashcards

Flashcards covering the historical context, key figures, and core theological disputes of the Protestant Reformation.

When did the interrelated series of schisms known as the Protestant Reformation take place?

From $1517$ to $1648$.

What were the historical reasons for the success of the Reformation?

Abuses within the papacy, controversy on indulgences, relations between the Church and state, and the invention of the printing press.

What are the two major theological principles associated with Lutheranism?

Sola fide ("faith alone") and sola scriptura ("scripture alone").

Which primary "reformers" objected to Church doctrines, sacraments, and hierarchical structure?

Martin Luther and John Calvin.

What was the name of the significant territory in Italy ruled by the Church around the year $1500$?

The Papal States.

Who was the reformer that died in $1384$ and emphasized that the Bible should be read in one's own language?

John Wycliffe.

Who was martyred at the Council of Constance in $1415$ for his positions against Papal authority?

John Hus.

What event in $1510$ influenced Martin Luther's views on the Church?

An eye-opening trip to Rome where he witnessed Roman corruption firsthand.

What is the formal title of the document commonly known as the "95 Theses"?

Disputation on the Power of Indulgences.

Where and when did Martin Luther first publish the 95 Theses?

In Wittenberg, Germany, in $1517$.

What specific practice did Martin Luther challenge that involved the Church acting as an intermediary between people and God?

The selling of indulgences.

What does the theological principle "Sola Fide" mean?

It is faith alone that saves, not good works.

What does the theological principle "Sola Scriptura" mean?

Scripture alone is the source of faith, meaning no intermediary (clergy) is needed to communicate with God.

What is the Catholic Church's teaching on merit according to the CCC?

Charity is the principal source of merit, and moved by the Holy Spirit, Christians can merit graces needed for eternal life through faith and good works.

What is Luther's belief regarding the Eucharist, known as consubstantiation?

Christ is present in the bread, but the bread is not transformed into the Body of Christ.

When was Martin Luther officially excommunicated?

January $1521$.

What occurred at the Diet of Worms regarding Martin Luther?

Emperor Charles V summoned Luther to recant his position; Luther refused and was named an enemy of the State.

How did Martin Luther spend his time while being hidden by Frederick the Wise?

He translated the New Testament from Latin into German.

What theological concepts did John Calvin emphasize in France?

The sovereignty of Scripture and predestination.

What was Huldrych Zwingli's view on the relationship between Church and State?

He believed they should be intertwined.

What was the catalyst for Henry VIII breaking from Catholicism to begin Anglicanism?

He wanted to divorce his wife.

What specific belief distinguished the Anabaptists from other reformers?

They rejected infant baptism, believing baptism was reserved for adult Christians.

What is the current estimated number of different Protestant denominations globally?

Approximately $47,000$, though closer analysis suggests an average of $200$ separate broader categories.