Page 3 - History of Christianity II- Textbook

Study Section 1: Reformation and Post-Reformation Periods (1483-
1750)

1.1 Connect

Up to the 15 Century, the universal Church as people knew it was pretty much in control of the
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lives of all who lived in Europe. The Church had walked away from the doctrines of the founding
apostles in many areas and lust for power and riches had corrupted its leaders. People were
kept in ignorance as the Scriptures were not allowed to be distributed among the masses. It’s
no wonder they call this time “the Dark Ages.” It was dark because man’s minds were empty of
spiritual knowledge and most were spiritually living in darkness. People needed a change which
was coming in a few short years.

The Reformation marks a hallmark event in the history of the Church. It was an attempt of faithful men
to again open the Word of God and apply its truths to church polity. To begin this course, we will dive
into the beginning of this exciting time. Let’s get started…..

1.2 Objectives

1. Students will be able to lay a foundation upon which the Reformation was built.

2. Students should be able to give a short biography of Martin Luther and his contributions to the
Reformation.

3. Students should be able to give a short biography of Ulrich Zwingli and Meno Simons and their
contributions to the Reformation.

1.3 The Setting for the Reformation

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We come toward the end of the 15 century and find the papacy playing an increasing role in
secular rule in Europe. There were continual power struggles between the Pope in Rome and
various nations over who was the ultimate authority. King Philip IV of France finally elected
Pope Clement V and the papal court was moved from Rome to Avignon in 1309. It remained
there until 1376. We learned about the Great Schism were several rival claimants declared
themselves pope. The seesaw battle between popes weakened the idea of the pope as a
central authority in the minds of Christians.

The Hundred Years War between England and France (1337-1453) ended with the campaigns of Joan of
Arc and her successors, only to enhance national feeling. This also weakened the religious bond held by
the pope in Rome. Also nationalism was on the rise as kings sought authority over the rule of the popes.

Black Death broke out in 1347-1350 all over Europe. By the time it was over, almost 50% of Europe’s
population was dead. The economy of the nations was in turmoil. The Black Death shook the physical
and political structure of European society. The horror of it left many in total despair.

Finally the spiritual authority of the pope and his hierarchy was undermined by the growing wealth of
the Church at the expense of the common people. Taxes to the Church were very burdensome and the
corruption in the church and among secular leaders was increasing. The selling of indulgences began in

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