Luther's Works, Volume 38: Word and Sacrament IV

Luther's Works #38

by Martin E. Lehmann, Martin Luther, Helmut T. Lehmann (Translator)

The final volume in the section entitled "Word and Sacrament" of Luther's Works traces the development of Luther's concept of the Lord's Supper from the time of the Marburg Colloquy in 1529 down to 1544, two years before his death.

Genres: Theology, Religion, Reference

372 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1976

Reviews

[Glenn Crouch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought with the previous volume, that I was starting to tire of the seemingly never-ending coverage of the Lord’s Supper (I know quite a heretical thing for a Lutheran Pastor to say). So I was a little reluctant in getting into this volume, which once again was mainly about the Lord’s Supper. However, I was pleasantly surprised, as it not only covers new ground but includes a different approach.

For the latter, we have coverage of the meeting between the Lutherans and the Swiss Reformers, with the focus naturally being on Luther vs Zwingli (and Oecolampadius). What I found quite intriguing is that we get the discussions from several different viewpoints - and whilst that is a little repetitive, I found it worthwhile to see these different (though still quite similar) views. It gave more depth to the event, than I had appreciated before.

I also find Luther’s article (and letter) on the Private Mass and Consecration of the Priests to be very worthwhile - and as mentioned above, covering some new territory in more detail, which was welcomed.

Also included is a Disputation covering “the Word became flesh”, looking at the incarnation in a Philosophy vs Theology type approach. I appreciated having another disputation to read, as it gives an insight into the Academic side of Luther’s life.

All round a good volume that I enjoyed, and looking forward to Volume 39!