The Impact of the Lutheran Reformation on Culture

Abstract

Martin Luther, being the pioneer of the Protestant Reformation (1517) introduced a radical reformation in order to change the prevailing corruptive system of the 16th century Western Catholic Church which absolutely had a great impact not only on religion but also on political, social, cultural and economic world of that era. The reformation paved the way to (1) the vernacular translation of the Bible, (2) changes in the liturgical celebrations, and (3) changes in Christian art and church architecture. The translation of the Bible into vernacular languages afforded the opportunity to read the Sacred Scriptures in their own languages and to judge for themselves whether the teachings and religious practices were in accordance with the Sacred Scriptures. The simple forms of worship adopted in small groups and home based communities shifting the stone made altar to a table of fellowship were significant changes in conformity with the first Christian community. These changes helped people to become active participants in liturgy rather than passive observers. The introduction of simple art and architecture as an alternative to complex church art and architecture of the Western Catholic Church bridged the gap between the clergy and the faithful.