Grace on Tap

Episode 88 Frederick the Wise Part 5

1518-1519 was a critical turning point in the politics of the Reformation. Join Mike Yagley and Evan Gaertner as they follow Frederick the Wise as he navigates the turbulent waters between Pope Leo, Emperor Maximilian, and the rising voice of Martin Luther. From the tense Reichstag in Augsburg back-channel negotiations that kept Luther out of Rome, Frederick’s political skill kept the Reformation able to stay focused on the theology of the Reformation. The sudden death of Emperor Maximilian threw Europe into chaos, forcing the Elector of Saxony to mediate petty feuds, delicate alliances, and steer the direction of the imperial election. At one point, he came within one vote of becoming Emperor. Frederick found himself under increasing pressure from both Rome and his own allies. Papal authority was being shook by the exposure of the fraudulent origins of the “Donation of Constantine.” This episode is great for those who love conversations about theology, diplomacy, human drama, and Reformation history. The Portrait of Emperor Maximilian I is an oil painting by Albrecht Dürer, dating to 1519 and now in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria. It portrays Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor. Beer Break Stout Constitution Cream Stout from Bottle Rocket Brewery in Seward, Nebraska.

Episode 87 – Frederick the Wise Part 4

Evan Gaertner and Mike Yagley continue a discussion about Frederick the Wise’s ability to protect Martin Luther from the combined pressure of the pope and the emperor. This episode largely focuses on the events of 1518. After Luther posted his 95 Theses, the Church wasted no time in seeking to silence him. Pope Leo X demanded that Luther be sent to Rome, where execution likely awaited him. But Frederick saw the danger, not only to Luther, but to the fragile balance of power in the Holy Roman Empire. What followed was a masterclass in political restraint and strategic genius. We walk through the events of the 1518 Reichstag in Augsburg, where Frederick successfully blocked a sham “crusade” that would have aligned the emperor with the pope. He also managed to preserve his electoral influence by denying Emperor Maximilian’s request to pre-crown his grandson Charles, all while keeping Luther safe at home. You’ll hear how about the interrogation of Luther by Cardinal Cajetan unfolded. We will also discuss how a drunken brag changed the course of diplomacy. Martin Luther in front of Thomas Cajetan, Ferdinand Pauwels (Public Domain) Beer Break Guinness 0 is similar to Guinness Drought but brewed to be non-alcoholic. It is unmistakably Guinness from the pour into the glass, to the rich dark malty color, and all the way to the hints of chocolate and coffee in the flavor.

Episode 86 – Frederick the Wise Part 3

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. Beer Break Shipyard Brewery from Portland Maine. The American Pale Ale was born out of a desire to develop a modern, American expression of Pale Ale. This beer is easy, full of flavor, and without attitude.

Episode 85 – Frederick the Wise Part 2

Mike Yagley and Evan Gaertner continue the story of Frederick the Wise, the Elector of Saxon. From his birth in 1463 to his rise as a strategic ruler and devout leader, Frederick navigated political rivalries, financial struggles, and religious reform. Learn how he transformed Wittenberg into a center of learning and faith, laying the groundwork for a university, a grand residence, and a powerful religious presence. As tensions rise and Martin Luther enters the scene, Frederick’s influence will be tested like never before. Tune in to explore the life of the man who would become one of the Reformation’s most pivotal figures. Beer Break Komes Imperial Stout is a flavorful stout from Poland that uses Ukranians hops. This beer features smooth coffee and chocolate notes. This beer is fro Brewery Fortuna.

Special Edition Episode Lutheran Luncheon Club Recorded on January 8, 2025

Evan Gaertner presented to the Lutheran Luncheon Club in Detroit on January 8, 2025. Mike was unavailable, which is probably why Evan messed up the name of the town that Martin Luther was born in and died in. There was no beer break in this recording before a live audience.