"The Necessity of Reforming the Church" (Luther's 1520 document)

"The Necessity of Reforming the Church" is Martin Luther’s 1520 document advocating for significant changes within the Catholic Church. Luther argued that the Church needed to abandon corrupt practices, such as selling indulgences, and return to the true teachings of Jesus and the Bible. He believed reforms were essential to restore spiritual integrity and genuine faith among believers. Luther emphasized that salvation comes through faith, not through church rituals or money. His ideas challenged the Church’s authority, sparking the Protestant Reformation and encouraging people to think independently about their faith and church practices.