Martin Luther - Lesson 4

Introduction to the life and theology of Martin Luther.

Luther expressed his views in a way that was shaped by his theology and the culture.

Martin Luther was born in Germany in the late 15th century, just after Guttenberg developed his printing press.

Luther's writings demonstrate his ability to understand and articulate issues that are at the core of the nature of God and man. His theology is distinct from philosophy and consists of many comments on passages in Psalms and Romans.

Faith alone justifies. By faith the Christian is made to love God, therefore a person does good works because they cannot remain idle.

The work of Christ when he allowed himself to be crucified on the cross, teaches us about God's nature, our nature and our relationship to God.

Luther's fourfold sense of scripture focused on historical (literal), allegorical (figurative), tropological (moral), and anagogic (future).

Luther's view of the atonement differs from classical views taught during his time and view held by the scholastic tradition.

Luther's teaching on justification by faith is central to his theology.

Theology of the cross assumes bondage and moves to freedom.

Four positions on predestination include the Calvinist, neo-Protestant, intuitu fidei, and Gnesio-Lutherans.

Luther's commentary on Galatians is an attempt to set "Law" in its proper setting.

The sacraments are an external expression of an internal reality.

Luther's teachings on the importance of baptism and arguments for infant baptism.

Luther's view of the theological and personal significance of the Lord's Supper.

The kingdom of God and secular government have areas of unity and areas of differences.

Luther gives a definition of the church and describes characteristics of the church.

Luther developed a catechism to help people focus on the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith.

Martin Luther's writings can encourage people to pursue their relationship with God on a deeper level.