A long arduous process : a discussion of Martin Luther's theological breakthrough as a gradual development rather than a moment of sudden insight

Abstract

Martin Luther struggled with the problem of how an individual could stand before God. He believed that there was nothing that an individual could do to achieve salvation. This caused Luther much torment. He remained in this troubled state until he rediscovered the meaning of God’s righteousness. Some scholars argue that this theological breakthrough occurred in a moment of dramatic illumination at an event known as the Tower Experience. The primary purpose of this thesis is to show that Luther’s theological development occurred as a gradual process. Thus, this thesis argues that this breakthrough was not formed instantaneously. This thesis examines Martin Luther’s views on salvation and discusses their gradual evolution to further this view.