Martin Luther (1483–1546) was a key leader of the Protestant Reformation - a priest, teacher, and writer whose ideas changed Christianity and European history. In this article, we’ll look at some of his most important work and the postage stamps that celebrate his legacy.
Martin Luther’s most famous work, the Ninety-Five Theses, challenged the Catholic Church’s practice of selling indulgences - payments that were said to reduce punishment for sins. He nailed the document to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church in 1517, an act that became a powerful symbol of protest. The Theses quickly spread across Europe thanks to the printing press, reaching both church leaders and ordinary people. Many agreed with Luther’s call for change, while others strongly opposed him. This bold action marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, a movement that transformed religion, education, and politics across the continent. It also established Luther as one of the most influential voices in Christian history.
Martin Luther
West Germany (Bundesrepublik Deutschland) – 1952
"Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree." - Martin Luther
Luther translated the New Testament in 1522 and later the entire Bible in 1534 into German. Before this, only priests and scholars could read the Bible in Latin, so most people depended on others to tell them what it said. By translating it into everyday language, Luther made it possible for ordinary people to read and understand Scripture themselves. His translation was clear and simple, using words people actually spoke at the time. It became one of the most widely read books in Germany and helped shape and unify the modern German language. Through this work, Luther not only changed religion but also left a lasting mark on language and culture.
Martin Luther stamps
Luther’s 500th birthday
Czechoslovakia – 1983
"If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write." - Martin Luther
Luther rejected the authority of the pope and taught that salvation comes through faith alone - not by paying for indulgences or performing certain deeds. This idea, known as sola fide, became one of the main principles of the Reformation. He wanted people to have a personal relationship with God, without needing a priest to act as a go-between. Luther also simplified church services so everyone could understand and take part in them. He encouraged congregational singing, allowing ordinary people to join in worship through music. These changes made faith more personal, accessible, and meaningful for everyday believers.
Martin Luther stamps
East Germany (DDR) – 1982
"My heart, which is so full to overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary." - Martin Luther
Luther wrote many important works that deeply influenced religion and education.
Among the most famous are On the Freedom of a Christian (1520) and The Small Catechism (1529). In them, he explained that faith is a personal matter between each believer and God, not controlled by church authorities. He also wanted families and children to understand their faith, so he wrote simple guides for teaching Christian beliefs at home. These writings reshaped how people thought about God, freedom, and the role of the church in daily life. They became the foundation of Lutheranism and inspired many other Protestant movements that followed.
20¢ Martin Luther
The 500th anniversary of Luther’s birth
USA - November 11, 1983
"Everything that is done in this world is done by hope." - Martin Luther
Today we looked at some very interesting Martin Luther stamps. If you’d like to read more similar stories, check out some of our previous articles.
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