Frederick the Wise: Reluctant Protector of the Reformation

In this episode, Mike Yagley and Evan Gaertner explores how Frederick the Wise’s relationship with Martin Luther evolved between 1516 and 1518. Though initially angered by Luther’s sermons against indulgences and relics, Frederick gradually reconsidered his stance—thanks in part to his advisor George Spalatin and Luther’s mentor Johannes Staupitz. As Luther’s public profile rose through preaching, teaching, and writing, Frederick began to take serious interest, despite the personal and political costs.

We highlight how Frederick quietly supported Luther even before the 95 Theses, consulting him through Spalatin and heeding his warnings about church corruption. After the Theses were posted, Frederick never tried to silence Luther—even though indulgences funded his prized relic collection. Instead, he shielded Luther from threats, balancing loyalty to the Church with growing sympathy for reform.

As pressure from Rome and the emperor increased, Frederick used legal and political savvy to protect Luther without defying the Church outright. He delayed action, sought local hearings, and leveraged widespread frustration with papal overreach. This episode shows Frederick not as a radical, but as a cautious and principled leader whose steady hand helped make the Reformation possible.

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