The sixteenth-century theologian who sparked the Protestant Reformation offers an accessible introduction to his views on faith, good works, and salvation.

In 1517, German theologian Martin Luther posted ninety-five complaints against the Roman Catholic Church—his famous Ninety-Five Theses—to the door of All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg. This simple act of protest sparked the global movement known as the Protestant Reformation, dramatically changing the course of Christianity and altering the fate of nations.

In A Treatise on Good Works, Luther presents a clear and accessible introduction to his deeply influential theology. Offering simple and direct principles for Christian living, he defines good works as all activities intended to help maintain the church. But while Luther maintains that good works are important, he also argues that salvation only comes from faith in God’s grace.