Reading the Bible with Martin Luther: An Introductory Guide

Prominent Reformation historian Timothy Wengert introduces the basic components of Martin Luther's theology of the Bible and examines Luther's contributions to present-day biblical interpretation. Wengert addresses key points of debate regarding Luther's approach to the Bible that have often been misunderstood, including biblical authority, the distinction between law and gospel, the theology of the cross, and biblical ethics. He argues that Luther, when rightly understood, offers much wisdom to Christians searching for fresh approaches to the interpretation of Scripture. This brief but comprehensive overview is filled with insights on Luther's theology and its significance for contemporary debates on the Bible, particularly the New Perspective on Paul.
Contents
1. Authority: Putting James in Its Place
James and Straw
The Self-Authenticating Scripture
Sola Scriptura?
2. Method: Dying and Rising
A Cautionary Tale about Throwing Stones
Distinguishing Law and Gospel
The Law's First Use: The Pastor as Vo-Tech Teacher
A Third Use for the Law: The First and the Second Uses Apply to Believers
Exegesis Is for Proclamation: Finding the Law and the Gospel in the Text
3. Interpretation: Strength Perfected in Weakness
The Weakness of Scripture
Finding the Central Weakness of Scripture: Romans
Finding the Center of the Gospels
4. Practice: Luther's Biblical Ethics
Gleichmut: The Christian's Balancing Act
Das Gewissen: The Conscience
Glaube: Faith
Gemeinschaft: Community
5. Example: Luther Interpreting Galatians 3:6-14
The Argumentum
Galatians 3:6-14 in 1519
Galatians 3:6-14 in 1535
An Afterword: Looking Forward to Reading the Bible with Luther
Indexes