Martin Luther: Confessor of the Faith

by Robert Kolb

Martin Luther's thought continues to challenge people throughout the world in the twenty-first century. His paradigmatic shift in defining God and what it means to be human left behind a foundation for viewing human creatures that was anchored in Aristotle's anthropology. Luther defined the Revealed God in terms of his mercy and love for human beings, based not on their merit and performance but rather on his unconditioned grace. He placed 'fearing, loving, and trusting God above all else' at the heart of his definition of being human.

This volume places the development and exposition of these key presuppositions in Luther's thinking within the historical context of late medieval theology and piety as well as the unfolding dynamics of political and social change at the dawn of the modern era. Special attention is given the development of a 'Wittenberg way' of practicing theology under Luther's leadership. It left behind a dependence on allegorical methods of biblical interpretation for a 'literal-prophetic' approach to Scripture. More importantly, it placed the distinction between the 'gospel' as God's unmerited gift of identity as his children and the 'law', the expression of God's expectations for the performance of his children in good works, at the heart of all interpretation of the Bible. This presuppositional framework for practicing theology reflects Luther's personal experience and his deep commitment to pastoral care of common Christians as well as his reading of the biblical text. It is supported by
his distinction of two kinds of human righteousness (passive in God's sight, active in relationship to others), his distinction of two realms or dimensions of human life, and his theology of the cross. The volume unfolds Luther's maturing thought on the basis of this method.

Genres: History, Theology, Church History

215 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Robert Kolb (PhD, University of Wisconsin) is Mission Professor of Systematic Theology emeritus at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He is the author of numerous books including The Genius of Luther’s Theology and is coeditor of The Book of Concord (2000 translation).

Reviews

[Jeremiah Gumm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thorough overview of Martin Luther and his historical and theological context.

[Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Not your traditional biography. Slices along the development of Luther's doctrines. Good pace, context and depth.

[Ben Simmons]

This is a fantastic overview of what makes Luther distinctive as a thinker. I appreciated the historical context/medieval framework Kolb provides, which makes Luther seem more medieval and more intelligible at the same time. I left the book with a better understanding not only of Luther but the Reformation as a whole. If I had to recommend one book on Luther, this would be it.