Martin Luther: The Man, The Myth, The Legend

On November 10^th, 1483 in Eisleben-Saxony, Germany, one of the most decorated and influential figures of all time was born. His name was Martin Luther. As both a priest and Professor of Theology, Luther was noted for his strong, yet distinctive style of writing. He used crude and profound language when he wrote, which really caught the eye of his peers. Even for those who could not read, he would create artwork to relay his message(s). One of his most impressive accomplishments was translating the bible into German so it was easier for the common man to understand. With this action, it made the bible more accessible, as well as having a tremendous impact on the church and the German culture as a whole.

But what Luther is most noted for is his rejection of the Roman Catholic Church, as well as The Pope. And how he thought to expose them for what they truly were. Luther composed several small books and pieces of writing criticizing these two significant commodities during this time. For example, Luther painted the idea of how all German money ends up going towards the Pope’s amenities. He also wrote piece that attacked the heart of the church, the system of sacraments. Which composed of seven sacraments. It was thought that in order for an individual to go to heaven, they had to be granted permission for each of these sacraments by the church. Luther claimed that only two of the seven sacraments were in the bible (lords supper and baptism). The remaining sacraments were created by church, and needed to be taken away immediately. With the distribution of his thoughts on these matters, it redefined the relationship between a man and god for the people of Germany. Luther used the printing press to his advantage with his ideas. In that his ideas could travel across Germany and not be stopped. He has often been referred to as the first propagandist, due to the strong distribution of his ideas via printing press.

In 1517, Martin Luther created a small piece of paper that would eventually change not only Germany, or Europe, but the entire world forever. He created The Ninety-Five Theses and posted it on the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church. It stressed ideas such as “ordinary” Christians having the right as to how the church should be ran. Luther was aware that before his posting, that there were people who stood up to the church and were later tortured to death. But he felt so compelled to follow his beliefs because he knew that his actions may not help during his very moment of existence, but he might be able to make a difference for the generations to come. Luther was able to force individuals to think outside the box and truly question their beliefs in regards to the Roman Catholic Church and The Pope. The pope demanded Luther get rid of the Ninety-Five theses, but Luther refused to take it down. He truly believed in fighting for his core beliefs until the day he died.

Image of Martin Luther posting his Ninety-Five Theses on the Wittenberg Castle Church in 1517.

The Elector of Saxony, Frederick the Wise. Martin Luther's biggest supporter.

Luther realized that if he wanted to be successful in passing on his beliefs that he would have to gain the attention, and influence strong political figures. One of which he caught the eye of was Fredrick the Wise. Who happened to be the Prince-Elector of Luther’s hometown in Saxony. Fredrick took drastic actions to keep Luther safe from the church/Pope, as well as the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. Charles took notice to what Luther was doing and wanted to do something about it. Fredrick stood up for Luther and told Charles that Luther should be able to argue his case in front of Charles at the very influential event, Diet of Worms. As Luther traveled to his meeting with Charles, he noticed the popularity he was getting. At this point he realized the influence that he has provided for thousands of individuals. The people of Germany were trying to find an individual who had the courage and intelligence to convey what they truly felt, and they found that in Martin Luther. In Erfurt and Frankfurt, they threw parties for him, chanting,  “Long live Luther”. As Luther arrived at the Diet of Worms, he stood up for his beliefs and told the truth in front of the major powers of Europe. Claiming he would not repent under their orders. He then proceeded to say his famous line, “Here I stand, I can do no other, god help me, amen”.

The Diet of Worms held at the heylshof Garden in Worms in 1521.

The effects that Martin Luther had on not only Germany, but the entire world is more significant than some may think. In later years in America, the pilgrims would eventually start their nations under the religious principles that were started by Luther. Martin Luther gave individuals something that no one else could during this time, and that was the confidence to speak their minds. He changed the way that each and every one of us approach our religious freedom, each and every day. It’s safe to say that Martin Luther’s story reminds us all of the power of individual charisma.