University of Central Florida (UCF) EUH2000 Western Civilization I Midterm Practice Exam

Martin Luther is best known for his advocacy of the primacy of scripture and the importance of faith in the Christian life, which fundamentally challenged the established practices of the Catholic Church in the 16th century. He argued that salvation is attainable through faith alone (sola fide) and that the Bible is the sole authoritative source for Christian doctrine (sola scriptura). This perspective emphasized a personal relationship with God and encouraged individuals to read and interpret the scriptures for themselves, rather than relying solely on the Church's teachings or traditions.

Luther's rejection of the idea that saints serve as mediators in prayer and his criticism of the pope's authority further showcase his belief in the individual's direct access to God without the need for intermediaries. His views sparked the Reformation, which sought to reform the Church and led to the establishment of Protestant denominations, emphasizing individual conscience and interpretation of the Bible over the traditional teachings and authority structures of the Catholic Church. This theological shift was a crucial moment in Western civilization, influencing not only religious thought but also cultural, political, and social developments throughout history.