How did Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses contribute to the Reformation?

The Ninety-Five Theses, authored by Martin Luther in 1517, were significant in sparking the Reformation primarily because they contested the prevailing church doctrines related to penance and indulgences. Luther argued that salvation could not be bought or earned through the purchase of indulgences, which were seen as a way to reduce punishment for sins. His theses highlighted the importance of faith and grace over monetary contributions to the church, asserting that genuine repentance and faith in God were the true paths to salvation.

By challenging the practices and theological positions upheld by the Catholic Church regarding penance, Luther opened up a discourse that would lead to profound changes in Christian theology and practice. The Ninety-Five Theses were a catalyst for reform, encouraging many to rethink their beliefs about sin, forgiveness, and the authority of the church. This shift ultimately contributed to the formation of various Protestant denominations that embraced Luther's views on salvation and direct access to God without the church's mediation.