Dr. Mārtiņa Lutera 95 tēžu un to "Skaidrojumu" (Resolutiones) baznīcvēsturiskais konteksts

One of the most important early theological works of the German reformer Martin Luther (1483–1546) is his Explanations of the Ninety-five Theses Against Indulgences (Resolutiones disputationum de indulgentiarum virtute), which were published in August 1518. The Theses published the year before (Disputatio pro declaratione virtutis indulgentiarum) had gained wide attention, but were also criticized and often misinterpreted by his opponents. Therefore, Luther wrote these Explanations to defend and justify his point of view. They show also Luther’s strong inner conflict at that time. He writes respectfully of the Pope, but questions his primacy as Bishop of Rome; he quotes the Church Fathers and Canon Law, but still considers the Bible to be the main authority on religious matters. He recognizes the general authority of Church councils but opposes their individual decisions, such as the burning of heretics at the Concil of Constance. He still accepts Purgatory and the “Church Treasures” but interprets them evangelically. He does not like riots and disobedience, but he clearly calls for the reform of The Church.