The work explores the evolution of religion from primitive practices aimed at appeasing nature's forces to the sophisticated theological frameworks established by key figures in the Reformation. It highlights the transition from rituals requiring significant personal sacrifice, as seen in various cultures, to the more accessible faith-based salvation introduced by Luther and Calvin. The author argues that earlier religious forms demanded tangible sacrifices, while Luther's reformation represented a radical shift, emphasizing faith over ritual. This shift is portrayed as both imaginative and economically advantageous, as it democratized access to salvation, effectively removing the financial barriers previously imposed by the Church. Luther's insistence on Justification by Faith is presented as a pivotal moment in religious history, allowing individuals to attain spiritual redemption without the need for costly rituals or intermediaries. The text critiques the complexities of earlier religious practices and celebrates the simplicity and inclusivity of the Reformation's message, suggesting that Luther and Calvin fundamentally altered the landscape of Christianity by making heaven accessible to all believers, regardless of their socio-economic status. The work ultimately positions the Reformation as a significant turning point in the relationship between faith, personal sacrifice, and institutional religion.
By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1934 · Genre: Religious, Historical, Philosophical