7 important dates in the Reformation life of Martin Luther

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Monday, October 31, 2022

Luther debates Cardinal at Augsburg – Oct. 12, 1518

Martin Luther debates Cardinal Thomas Cajetan from Oct. 12-14, 1518, in Augsburg, as depicted in a 19th century painting. | Public Domain

After Martin Luther nailed his theses to the church door, he wrote several works expanding upon his objections that had been initially laid out on All Hallows Eve 1517.

In response to his work, Luther was summoned to meet with Cardinal Thomas Cajetan at Augsburg, with the high-ranking church official expecting the monk to recant his views.

Instead, Luther had what became a three-day debate with Cajetan, with Luther demanding that the cardinal use Scripture to prove that the Protestant leader was wrong.

“As long as these Scripture passages stand, I cannot do otherwise, for I know that one must obey God rather than men,” Luther was recorded as saying during the debate with Cajetan.