Thursday, August 11, 2011

This Day In Church History: The Death of John Tetzel

Theological Thursdays


August 11, 1519: Johann Tetzel, the German Dominican priest whose peddling of indulgences inspired Martin Luther to write his 95 Theses, dies. 


Throughout Germany he infamously preached,


 "As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs." Even the papal envoy eventually criticized him.




 As for Luther, though he once called Tetzel "the primary author of this tragedy," when he heard Tetzel lay dying, wrote the friar a letter of comfort: "Don't take it too hard. You didn't start this racket"


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Join us on Theological Thursdays as I will continue to offer theological truths by unlocking the meaning of various words, terms, and definitions through the posting of the attributes of God, word studies, and events from church history. As both a pastor and theologian I am passionate about the accurate teaching of biblical doctrine.

3 comments:

RHYTHM AND RHYME said...

Through you Gregg I am learning about people I have never heard of before. Today is no exception.
Thanks a bunch.
Yvonne.

kc bob said...

What a great and gracious response by Luther!

Petra said...

I've learned something new again! Thanks for always making it so interesting. I love how Luther showed grace where it mattered. Blessings!