Little Prayer Book, 1522, and A Simple Way to Pray, 1535: The Annotated Luther Study Edition

by Mary Jane Haemig (Editor), Eric Lund (Editor)

This volume provides two of Martin Luther's most significant writings on prayer. In Little Prayer Book (1522) , Luther seeks to reform the theology and practice of prayer in clear and understandable language for all people by encouraging simple, direct prayer to God, who promises to hear the one who prays. Luther focuses on the Ten Commandments, Apostles' Creed, and Lord's Prayer, giving his treatment of prayer a catechetical feel that would later provide the structure of his catechisms. In A Simple Way to Pray (1535) , Luther offers his barber and all other readers insights into his own prayer life. He organizes his comments around the seven petitions of the prayer Jesus taught to his disciples. He also uses the Ten Commandments and the Apostles' Creed as resources for prayer. He sets out to "kindle a fire in the heart" and increase the reader's eagerness for prayer. This volume is excerpted from The Annotated Luther series, volume 4 ( Pastoral Writings ). Each volume and selection in the series contains new introductions, extensive annotations, illustrations, and notes to help shed light on Luther's context and to interpret his writings for today.

Genres: Religion, German Literature

86 pages, Paperback

Published July 15, 2017

Reviews

[Reid Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The answer Luther would give to an average Christian when asked for counsel in how to pray well. Should peek any Christian's interest considering the world-changing influence this man had, no doubt, due to his fervent prayers. Refreshingly clear and encouraging.

[John Rakshith Prabhakar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written plainly. Translated elegantly

[Josué Roque · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it is a very short book, it still is very insightful. I will try to use it in my prayer life.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This includes Luther's Small Catechism, which is the reason I had a good read through this for my Confirmation course, with added content and context.