Which of the following concepts is central to Martin Luther's teachings?

Martin Luther's teachings are fundamentally rooted in the concept of justification through faith and grace. This principle emphasizes that individuals are made righteous before God not by their own merits or actions but solely through faith in Jesus Christ and the grace bestowed upon them by God. Luther argued that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned through rituals, good works, or adherence to tradition. This revolutionary idea challenged the prevailing practices of the Catholic Church at the time, which often placed significant importance on works and sacraments as necessary for salvation.

In contrast to the concept of justification through faith and grace, the other options reflect beliefs or practices that Luther critiqued or rejected. Ritualistic observance of traditions implies a reliance on external actions for spiritual fulfillment, which Luther argued detracts from the true essence of faith. The necessity of penance for salvation also stands in direct opposition to Luther's belief that grace and faith alone are sufficient for salvation, rendering penance unnecessary as a means of securing God’s favor. Lastly, while universalism suggests that all people are inherently accepted by God regardless of their faith or actions, Luther emphasized a more specific understanding of salvation through personal faith in Christ, rather than an all-encompassing acceptance. Therefore, the focus on justification through faith and