What was the significance of Martin Luther's 95 Theses?

The significance of Martin Luther's 95 Theses lies in its role as a catalyst for the Protestant Reformation. When Luther posted these theses in 1517, he challenged the practices of the Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences, which he viewed as corrupt and contrary to biblical teachings. This act of challenging church authority sparked widespread debate and led to significant theological discussions that questioned the church's practices and doctrines. As a result, the 95 Theses motivated the formation of new Christian denominations and various movements focused on reforming the church, ultimately resulting in a profound shift in the religious landscape of Europe and the emergence of Protestantism. This seismic change in Christianity laid the groundwork for numerous religious conflicts and transformations in the following centuries, reinforcing the importance of individual faith and scriptural authority in contrast to ecclesiastical hierarchy.