Testament: A Look into Motivations that Spurred the Reformation

In Martin Luther's writing, Babylonian Captivity of the Church, Luther references the account of the last supper that is given in the Bible. One of the reasons given of the why the existing practices of the Catholic Church were incorrect–particularly selling indulgences–was explained by looking into the meaning of a "testament," more specifically, the "new testament" represented by the cup in the last supper.

Luther stated, "Christ, who is the truth, truly says that this is the new testament in his blood, [...] Thus, if we inquire what a testament is, we shall learn at the same time what the mass is, what its right use and blessing, and what its wrong use." 

The Bible can be viewed as a Will and Testament of Jesus Christ

As I read this, I was struck by the connection made to the word "testament" as it is generally used. A testament states the desires of a person before their death of the distribution of their estate. It usually consists of certain properties being promised to certain individuals; it is also common for these promises to have prerequisites: the heir(s) to the estate must fulfill certain requirements to inherit the promised property. 

Christianity involves following the Will of Jesus Christ

Christ is seen as the creator, and has left a testament to mankind on how they can inherit the Kingdom of God. This was represented in the Old Testament by the sacrificial law which required offerings from the people of Israel. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfilled the sacrificial law by offering His own blood. He then left His new "testament," by requiring that His commandments be followed.

Martin Luther felt that the way the existing church followed the Bible was only partially following the commandments given by Christ. He was concerned that the commandment to have faith in God was not being sufficiently followed, and even mocked by current practices.

I have had a similar feeling as I have tried to practice my Christian religion. Acknowledging that nobody is perfect, I feel that either being overly ritualistic, or completely ignoring the commandments (just doing what "feels right",) can be missing the at least part of the requirements that were given by Christ. Learning more about the history of the reformation makes me suspect that this was very much the motivation of the reformers as well.