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WH.2.2: Document Click Next to read a short passage from Martin Luther to Pope Leo X.

Click here to read a summary of Luther's letter

Below is a summary of the excerpt: Paragraph 1: Luther explains that he has been fighting against the corrupt practices of the time for several years. He wants Pope Leo to understand that he doesn’t have a personal problem with him and wishes him well. Luther’s disagreement is only about the truth of God’s word, not about personal issues. Paragraph 2: Luther criticizes the corruption in the Roman Church, comparing it to sinful cities like Babylon and Sodom. He feels obligated to protect others from the harmful influence of the Roman Church. Luther argues that the once-holy Church of Rome has now become a place full of sin and evil. Paragraph 3: Luther sympathizes with Pope Leo, comparing him to a good person surrounded by dangerous, corrupt people. He feels sorry that Leo, who he thinks deserves better, is caught in such a corrupt environment. Luther bluntly tells the Pope the truth because he cares about him. Paragraph 4: Luther asks Leo to allow him to defend his beliefs. He says he must speak up about God’s word, which teaches freedom, even if others want to silence him. Luther warns the Pope not to believe those who say he has power over heaven and hell, as they are only trying to control and mislead him.