The Reformation - The Early Church

The video explores the historical context of the Reformation, highlighting the church's deep political involvement and subsequent corruption over centuries. It discusses the Crusades initiated by Pope Urban II and the controversial practice of selling indulgences, which promised forgiveness of sins. Johann Tetzel's role in aggressively marketing indulgences is examined, illustrating the church's moral decline. Despite attempts at reform, the church remained corrupt, leading to significant discord by the 1500s.

What was the historical background that led to the Reformation?

How did the papacy's role change during the decline of the empire of Charlemagne?

What were the motivations behind the Crusades initiated by Urban II?

What was the concept of indulgences and how did it evolve over time?

Who was Johann Tetzel and what role did he play in the sale of indulgences?

What were the consequences of the growing corruption within the church by the 1500s?

In what ways did the Crusades reflect the church's willingness to use brutality?