What was the purpose of the Protestant Reformation?

The purpose of the Protestant Reformation was primarily to reform the Catholic Church, which had become associated with various practices and doctrines that many believed strayed from the teachings of the Bible and the true essence of Christianity. This movement, which began in the early 16th century, aimed to address issues such as corruption, the sale of indulgences, and the authoritative structure that placed significant power in the hands of a few church leaders.

As a response to these challenges, reformers like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others sought to return to the Scriptures as the sole authority for faith and practice. This emphasis on the Bible led to the establishment of numerous Protestant churches, each interpreting Christian doctrine and practice in different ways. The movement exponentially increased religious diversity and encouraged personal faith over institutional authority.

This understanding captures the essence of the Reformation—while it sought to reform existing practices, it inevitably led to the formation of new Christian denominations that highlighted different theological perspectives rooted in a call for reform.