Reformation Quiz

“The Reformation was a significant religious movement in the 16th century that led to the establishment of Protestant churches and a break from the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. Key figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli played pivotal roles in challenging the practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences and the authority of the Pope. Understanding the context of the Reformation involves recognizing the socio-political climate of the time, including the rise of nation-states, the influence of humanism from the Renaissance, and the printing press’s role in disseminating reformist ideas. Students should be familiar with the key events leading to the Reformation, including the posting of Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517, the Diet of Worms in 1521, and the formation of various Protestant denominations.


To effectively master the topic, students should not only memorize important dates and figures but also engage with the underlying theological debates that characterized the Reformation. Important concepts include justification by faith, the priesthood of all believers, and the authority of Scripture alone (sola scriptura). Students should also explore the social and cultural impacts of the Reformation, such as the rise of literacy, changes in religious practices, and the eventual Catholic Counter-Reformation. Engaging with primary sources, such as Luther’s writings or Calvin’s “Institutes of the Christian Religion,” can provide deeper insight into the motivations and beliefs of reformers. Additionally, comparing the different strands of Protestantism that emerged, including Lutheranism, Calvinism, and Anglicanism, will help students understand the diverse landscape of Christianity that resulted from the Reformation.”