What was Martin Luther's primary criticism of the Catholic Church?

• A. Corruption among the clergy
• B. Excessive focus on tradition
• C. Sale of indulgences and justification by faith
• D. Failure to address poverty

Answer: (C)

Martin Luther's primary criticism of the Catholic Church centered around the sale of indulgences and the concept of justification by faith. He believed that the Church was exploiting the faithful by selling indulgences, which were said to reduce punishment for sins. Luther argued that salvation could not be earned through these transactions or good works but was a gift received through faith in God’s grace. This idea fundamentally challenged the Church's practices and teachings, leading to significant theological debates and ultimately the Protestant Reformation.

The focus on justification by faith highlighted Luther's belief that individuals could have a direct relationship with God without the need for intermediaries, such as priests. His famous "95 Theses," which criticized indulgences among other issues, sparked widespread discussion that questioned the authority and practices of the Catholic Church, contributing to a major religious transformation in Europe.