What does Luther say about the nature of penance?

Martin Luther redefined the nature of penance, emphasizing that it is more about genuine repentance and faith than ritualistic practices or indulgences. He argued that true penance involves an internal change of heart and a sincere desire to turn away from sin, rather than merely performing external acts of contrition. Luther believed that forgiveness comes from God's grace through faith, rather than through human efforts or ceremonies. This shift laid the groundwork for his critique of the Catholic Church's sacramental system and contributed to the Protestant Reformation.