Luther as a monk and a professor

Luther led a strict monastic life and began studies for a degree in theology. In 1507, he was ordained into the priesthood. He obeyed the rules of the Augustinian monks to the letter, confessing even minor transgressions and often for hours on end. He believed that man could not redeem himself before God through his own actions. In 1510, Luther was sent to Rome by his order. After returning, he completed his studies in Wittenberg and delivered his first lectures. He received his doctorate in 1512, and took over the chair of biblical theology, a position he held until his death.