This week in Christian history: Moravian Church leader born, Luther debate, women’s rights

The Leipzig Disputation ends – July 16, 1519

This week marks the anniversary of when a major theological debate between Martin Luther and notable Catholic theologian John Eck came to a conclusion.

Began in June of that year and held at the German city of Leipzig, the debate initially featured Eck and Luther ally Andreas Bodenstein von Karlstadt. Luther was added to the debate later.

Major points of debate included the nature of grace and the authority of the Church. The debate was noted as a major moment for the Reformation due to Luther’s statements.

“For the first time, Luther had articulated clearly his position that popes, councils, and theologians were all subject to error, leaving Scripture as the supreme authority in all theological matters. This became a watershed moment, resulting in both increased support and increased opposition,” notes the website Reformation500.