Who are Lutherans?
Luther did not want to leave the church, but the church's leadership regarded his views as disturbing and dangerous. In 1520 he was excommunicated, but he continued to proclaim his views in his preaching, teaching and writing.
Luther was supported by a growing number of people, including many clergy and secular rulers. In a short time large areas of Germany became 'Lutheran', and Lutheranism took root in other European countries and in Scandinavia.
The Lutheran Church was the first church to grow out of the Reformation movement. The Reformation was kindled by Luther's 95 theses and rapidly spread throughout western Europe, influencing also the church in Britain at the time of Henry VIII.
The Lutheran Church continues to be one of the largest churches in the world, developing first in Germany, Scandinavia and the Baltic, and now comprising some 60-70 million members in all regions of the world.