Question

The sale of indulgences began during the Crusades in the 12th and 13th centuries. Because Crusaders risked dying far from home without a priest to administer last rites, they were promised salvation if they died while fighting to free the Christian holy city at Jerusalem from Islamic control. Church leaders said that “good works” earned salvation and making Jerusalem accessible to Christians was an example of a good work. Over time, church leaders decided that paying money to support good works was an acceptable substitute for performing good works, and it made salvation possible for people who were physically unable to fight in a Crusade.


What was Martin Luther's response to the doctrine of "good works" described in the passage?
A.
Luther said that faith alone could grant salvation, not good works.
B.
Luther thought that good works could be a path to salvation.
C.
Luther called for more opportunities for good works.
D.
Luther accepted the idea of good works but rejected indulgences.

Answer 1

A. Luther said that faith alone could grant salvation, not good works.

He argued (sola fide) that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not by performing good works or buying indulgences.