Search

This first volume in Martin Brecht's three-volume biography recounts Luther's youth and young adulthood up to the period of the Diet of Worms. Brecht, in a clear, eloquent translation by James Schaaf, discusses Luther's education at the University of Erfurt, his monastic life, his canonical trial in 1519, the Leipzig debate, and his earliest contributions to the beginning of the Reformation. Illustrations enrich the text.

Preserving the legacy of one of the twentieth century’s most influential advocates for peace and justice, The Papers of Martin Luther King, Jr., is described by one historian as being the "equivalent to a conversation" with King. To Save the Soul of America, the seventh volume of the anticipated fourteen-volume edition, provides an unprecedented glimpse into King’s early relationship with President John F. Kennedy and his efforts to remain relevant in a protest movement growing increasingly massive and militant. Following Kennedy’s inauguration in January 1961, King’s high expectations for the new administration gave way to disappointment as the president hesitated to commit to comprehensive civil rights legislation. As the initial Freedom Ride catapulted King into the national spotlight in May, tensions with student activists affiliated with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) were exacerbated after King refused to participate in subsequent freedom rides. These tensions became more evident after King accepted an invitation in December 1961 to help the SNCC-supported Albany Movement in southwest Georgia. King’s arrests in Albany prompted widespread national press coverage for the protests there, but he left with minimal tangible gains. During 1962 King worked diligently to improve the effectiveness of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) by hiring new staff and initiating grassroots outreach. King also increased his influence by undertaking an overcrowded schedule of appearances, teaching a course at Morehouse College, and participating in an additional round of protests in Albany during July 1962. As King confronted these difficult challenges, he learned valuable lessons that would later impact his efforts to desegregate Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963.

In the seminal work "Disputation of Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences," Martin Luther articulately challenges the prevailing ecclesiastical doctrines of his time, particularly the practice of selling indulgences. Luther employs a rigorous scholastic method, blending theological argumentation with rhetorical finesse. The text, which lays the groundwork for the Protestant Reformation, critiques the moral implications and spiritual efficacy of indulgences, asserting that true salvation is obtained through faith alone, not purchased through ecclesiastical means. It serves as an incisive commentary on early 16th-century Catholic practices alongside a broader critique of institutional corruption. Martin Luther, a German monk and theologian, was profoundly influenced by his own spiritual struggles and the socio-political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. His firsthand experience within the church led him to question its teachings, igniting a reformative fervor aimed at purifying Christianity from the encumbrances of man-made doctrines. Luther's theological insights, particularly regarding faith, grace, and the papacy's authority, were pivotal in shifting religious paradigms across Europe. "Disputation on Indulgences" is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of modern Christian thought and the emergence of Protestantism. Luther's provocative insights not only challenge established norms of his era but continue to resonate with contemporary discussions of faith, authority, and the nature of salvation.

Martin Luther's 'The Collected Works of Martin Luther' is a comprehensive collection of writings by the influential theologian and leader of the Protestant Reformation. The book covers a wide range of topics including theology, biblical interpretation, and the relationship between church and state. Luther's writing style is direct, passionate, and deeply rooted in his spiritual beliefs, making it both engaging and thought-provoking for readers. This collection provides valuable insights into the historical and religious context of the 16th century Europe, shedding light on the turbulent times in which Luther lived and worked. Martin Luther, a German monk and theologian, wrote these works in response to the corruption and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. His bold ideas and critiques sparked a major religious movement and forever changed the course of Western Christianity. Luther's personal experiences and strong convictions are evident in his writing, making it a valuable resource for scholars and readers interested in the Reformation era. I highly recommend 'The Collected Works of Martin Luther' to anyone interested in the history of Christianity, theology, or the Protestant Reformation. Luther's writings are not only historically significant but also intellectually stimulating, offering a unique perspective on faith and spirituality.

Written around 1350 by an anonymous author, this is a simple yet profound book about life in God as it translates into life in the world. This translation was based on the Reformer's edition of 1518.

The birth of Jesus as told by Martin Luther.

In "Selections from the Table Talk of Martin Luther," the reader is presented with a rich tapestry of Luther's thoughts distilled from his informal discussions, revealing the dynamic fusion of theology, philosophy, and personal anecdote that characterized his life. Written in a conversational style, these selections highlight Luther's innovative approach to doctrine and his challenges to ecclesiastical authority, reflecting the tumultuous period of the Reformation. The text mirrors the era's fervent quest for spiritual authenticity, inviting readers to engage with ideas on faith, grace, and the nature of God as presented through Luther's candid reflections. Martin Luther (1483-1546), a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation, drew upon his experiences as a monk, scholar, and theologian to craft these dialogues. His deep scrutiny of Church practices and his transformative theological insights were catalyzed by both personal convictions and the sociopolitical climate of his time. Luther's emphasis on individual faith and direct engagement with scripture significantly influenced his teachings, making his Table Talk not just a collection of thoughts but a practical guide for believers navigating religious uncertainty. "Selections from the Table Talk of Martin Luther" is a must-read for anyone interested in Reformation theology or the evolution of Christian thought. It serves as a window into the mind of one of history's most influential reformers, offering timeless wisdom and practical insights. Readers will find both inspiration and intellectual challenge within these pages, making it an essential resource for both academic study and personal reflection.

The Ninety-Five Theses were written by Martin Luther in 1517 and are widely regarded as the initial catalyst for the Protestant Reformation. The disputation protests against clerical abuses, especially the sale of indulgences. The background to Luther's Ninety-Five Theses centers on practices within the Catholic Church regarding baptism and absolution. Significantly, the Theses reject the validity of indulgences (remissions of temporal punishment due for sins which have already been forgiven). They also view with great cynicism the practice of indulgences being sold, and thus the penance for sin representing a financial transaction rather than genuine contrition. Luther argues that the sale of indulgences was a gross violation of the original intention of confession and penance, and that Christians were being falsely told that they could find absolution through the purchase of indulgences. Luther objected to a saying attributed to Johann Tetzel that "As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs." He insisted that since forgiveness was God's alone to grant, those who claimed that indulgences absolved buyers from all punishments and granted them salvation were in error. Christians, he said, must not slacken in following Christ on account of such false assurances.