Chapter 10:
Progress of Reform in Germany
“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” John 3:19
Introduction
The struggle continues in Germany. The Diet of Worms has stirred up the hearts of the princes and people of Germany. A conflict begins and with it a false revival. False apostles and unconverted men threaten to tear apart the country as well as the new found faith. But something wonderful will emerge to take place of fanaticism. God will use Martin Luther once more to bring light to a place where light is so desperately needed.
What are the elements of this chapter?
Concept: FANATICISM
False Prophets arise claiming to have special knowledge from God. (Read Mark 13:5; Matthew 7:15)
The Radical Reformation begins.
People: THOMAS MÜNTZER (1489-1525)
German preacher and radical theologian.
Opposed the Catholic church and Martin Luther for the compromises that they made.
Leader on the peasants side of the German peasants war and was killed at the battle of Frankenhausen (1525)
People: ANDREAS KARLSTADT (1486-1541)
German Protestant theologian and reformer.
Close associate of Luther at the University of Wittenberg but later came into conflict with him and joined the growing fanaticism.
People: ZWICKAU PROPHETS (1522)
Nicholas Storch, Thomas Dreschel and Markus Stübner come to Wittenberg to preach a fanatical message leading to a "Spirit only" movement that caused the people to neglect Bible truth. (1 John 4:1)
Prideful passion takes over the minds of the people and lawlessness, vandalism, and murder were the result.
Event: GERMAN PEASANTS WAR (1524-1525)
Peasants are thrown into a fanatical frenzy and rise up against the nobility ravaging the countryside as they went along.
Luther comes out of protective custody to condemn the peasants war and the false prophets. As a result, the false prophets turn on Luther.
Event: Luther translates the New Testament to German
What does this have to do with me today?
Is there fanaticism in your church? If so, what is fueling it?
What makes doctrine false?
Is lawlessness a problem today? How about in your church?
What are the dangers of following the “spirit” rather than God’s Word?
What movements in apostate Christianity can I compare to the fanatics in Luther’s time?
Is there fanaticism in my church; if so, what is fueling it? How is it manifested?
Is unrepentant lawlessness a problem today among church members today?
Have I observed pastors omit the subject of sin in their messages?