In viewing this black-and-white video production, I was provided with a view of Martin Luther asserting that the reason for Martin’s leaving law school was because of the climate of the times. The producers put forth the statement that the church introduced a period of legalism and judgment that induced fear in people and compelled the people to submit to the edicts and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. The movie portrayed Martin as being a problem monk, with the church questioning what to do with him. Rather than allow Martin to serve as a parish priest, they sent him to the academic world to study and teach. They also sent him on a journey to Rome to receive indulgences and relief from his time in purgatory. Martin, however, saw this as the church overstepping its authority and was bold enough to proclaim to his superiors that God’s righteousness comes from grace through faith, not by acts of man or the purchase of indulgences.

In his academic setting, Martin was provided the opportunity to delve into the Word, and in doing so, came to the realization of the truth presented in Romans 1:17—“For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” Contrary to the practices of the Church and its leaders, Martin stood fast in his understanding of Sola Fide, and Sola Scriptura, Sola Christus, Sola Gratia, and Sola Deo Gloria.

The movie shows that Luther had many supporters, as well as those who desired that he be sanctioned and excommunicated. It also portrays the church as being more concerned with selling indulgences and relics. The stated goal was to build St. Peter’s Cathedral. Therefore, Johann Tetzel, on behalf of the church, began selling indulgences that he claimed removed for all time the need for repentance and granted forgiveness for as long as a person lived. Luther continued to search the Scriptures to find a source for the selling of indulgences and the practices of the church, but he was unable to find it supported in Scripture. The church then, seeking to have Luther’s writings destroyed and to remove him from influence, created a division that resulted in the Reformation.

This movie presents a slightly different take on Luther’s story and focuses on his stand against the misdeeds of the church and its grab for power over the people. It is a movie well worth considering and checking out from Ambassador Publications.

Pr. Ron Brubakken
Cornerstone Lutheran Church
Argyle, WI

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This DVD and many others are available to check out from the Ambassador Publications Lending Library.