Final answer:
The Protestant Reformation, sparked by Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, called for significant changes in the Catholic Church, leading to the development of Lutheranism and other Protestant denominations. Its impact is evident in modern Christianity through the variety of denominations, the use of local languages in services, and scriptural authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reforms seen in our modern-day reflect the influence of the Protestant Reformation, which Martin Luther initiated. When Luther posted the Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, it marked the beginning of a movement that would eventually lead to significant changes in the practice of Christianity. Discontent with certain practices of the Catholic Church, such as the sale of indulgences and the overall wealth of the clergy, led to calls for greater accessibility to scripture and a more direct relationship with Christian teachings.
Luther's desire to reform the Church resulted in the development of Lutheranism, his doctrine that emphasized salvation by faith alone, and emphasized scripture as the sole authority. The spread of his ideas was fueled by the invention of the printing press and a rise in European literacy, leading to different movements and interpretations within Protestantism, including those led by Zwingli and Calvin. The Catholic Church responded with its own Counter-Reformation, attempting to address concerns and solidify its doctrine at the Council of Trent.
Today, the legacy of the Reformation is seen in the multitude of Christian denominations that exist, the widespread use of vernacular languages in worship services, and the principle of religious authority stemming directly from scripture. These changes have profoundly shaped the landscape of modern Christianity and the varied practices among its believers.