To combat abuses in the church of his day, the young German monk drafted nearly a hundred propositions for public debate. Martin Luther posted these "theses" on the church door in Wittenberg, an action that helped to give birth to the Reformation. Nearly everyone has heard of the Ninety-Five Theses, but few have read it. "This is such a crucial text," writes editor Stephen J. Nichols, "that it deserves to be read widely." He has written an illuminating introduction and many explanatory notes (conveniently located on facing pages), putting Luther's classic statement in everyone's reach. "Martin Luther has left a legacy that continues to enrich the church through his writings ...," writes Nichols. "All of this may be traced back to the last day in October 1517 and the nailing of the Ninety-Five Theses to the church door."