The first Protestant faith is generally considered to be Lutheranism. This denomination arose in the early 16th century when Martin Luther, a German monk, challenged the teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. In 1517, Luther famously nailed his ‘Ninety-Five Theses’ to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church, criticizing the sale of indulgences and the Church’s overall authority.
Luther’s ideas quickly spread across Europe, leading to a significant theological and cultural shift. His emphasis on scripture as the sole authority (sola scriptura) and the belief that salvation comes through faith alone (sola fide) became foundational principles for the Protestant Reformation.
As a result, Lutheranism is recognized as the first major branch of Protestantism, setting the stage for the emergence of other Protestant denominations in the years that followed.