This detailed portrait of Martin Luther—the religious reformer and translator of the Bible into German—highlights the significance of his work, both during his own lifetime, and in the modern era. Luther's biography is traced through historical documents and paintings, and the film goes into his relationship to Thomas Müntzer and their roles in the German Peasants’ Revolt.

From 1949 to 1990, most of the significant places associated with Luther were located in East Germany. The city of Wittenberg has especially profited from Luther-related international tourism, and a Luther Committee was founded by Erich Honecker to honor Luther's 500th birthday.