Luther: Selected Political Writings: Selected Political Writings

by J. M. Porter (Editor)

Martin Luther, pivotal figure of the sixteenth-century Reformation, continues to exercise a powerful influence in the affairs of the twentieth century, not just in the area of religion but also in the political sphere. The direction and desirability of that influence is a matter of dispute. J. M. Porter, a political scientist, here presents revealing selections from nine of Luther's more important writings, all excerpted from the American Edition of 'Luther's Works.' His texts suggest the complexity of the Reformer's thinking, its theological base, and the situational focus of his political utterances. Professor Porter also provides a helpful introduction in which he clarifies the meaning and implications of Luther's famous "two kingdoms" theory, whereby the state is freed both from domination by the church and from the temptation to dominate the conscience of its citizens. Here are to be found generous excerpts from the seminal writings which shaped the Reformation and continue to influence the course of events in our time. They illustrate Luther's innovative ideas about the nature of temporal authority, political obligation and its limits, church-state relations, and political resistance, Luther's plain and often pungent words will be of interest to students of history, religion, political science, and ethics - to everyone concerned about the issues of freedom and authority, ideology and politics, violence and nonviolence, war and freedom.

Genres: Religion, Theology, Politics

160 pages, Paperback

First published September 23, 1974

Reviews

[Andrew Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short book contains nine articles about the reform of Christian Estates, rights and duties of the Peasants, whether soldiers can be saved, the war against Turks and his warning to the German people.

Luther developed three major doctrines as a foundation of his political thought: the primacy of Scripture as the word of God, justification by faith and the priesthood of all believers.

He argues that clergy should not be a separate caste and that each Christian has a right to be selected by his community to represent it and care for their spiritual needs. He reminds his readers that - "In times gone by, Christians used to choose their bishops and priests from their own number, and they were confirmed in their office by the other bishops without all the fuss that goes on nowadays. St. Augustine, Ambrose and Cyprian each became a bishop in this way."(p.41)

He also argues whether the pope is the only one who can call a council. He quotes the Acts of Apostles to show that the first one was not called by St. Peter but by the apostles and elders (p.47). Even the Council of Nicea was called by the emperor Constantine.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh

[Louis Hensler · Rating 3 out of 5]

A useful little collection, but I prefer the Cambridge collection on Luther and Calvin.