Introduction:
The 95 Theses were a set of propositions written by Martin Luther in 1517. These theses were a key catalyst for the Protestant Reformation, which led to a significant schism in the Christian Church.

Background:
At the time, Martin Luther was a German monk and theologian who had become increasingly critical of the practices and beliefs of the Catholic Church. He was particularly troubled by the sale of indulgences, which were certificates that promised the forgiveness of sins and reduced time in purgatory in exchange for monetary donations.

The 95 Theses:
On October 31, 1517, Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. The theses were written in Latin and intended for academic debate, but they were soon translated into German and distributed widely, thanks to the advent of the printing press.

Key Points of the 95 Theses:
Luther's 95 Theses covered a range of topics, but they primarily criticized the sale of indulgences and questioned the authority of the Pope. Some of the key points included:
1. The true treasure of the Church is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, not money.
2. Buying indulgences gives a false sense of security and does not guarantee salvation.
3. Only God has the power to forgive sins, not the Pope or any other human authority.
4. The Church should focus on teaching the true doctrine of repentance and faith, rather than promoting indulgences.
5. All Christians, regardless of their social status, should have access to the Word of God and be able to interpret it themselves.

Impact and Significance:
The 95 Theses sparked a widespread debate and criticism of the Catholic Church, leading to the Protestant Reformation. Luther's ideas resonated with many people who were disillusioned with the corruption and excesses of the Church. The printing press played a crucial role in spreading his message, and Luther quickly gained supporters and followers.

Conclusion:
Martin Luther, a German monk and theologian, wrote the 95 Theses in 1517. These theses challenged the practices and beliefs of the Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences. The 95 Theses were a pivotal moment in history, leading to the Protestant Reformation and the establishment of new Christian denominations.