Luther: Selected Political Writings

Book excerpt: Martin Luther, pivotal figure of the sixteenth-century Reformation, continues to exercise a powerful influence in the affairs of the twentieth century, not just in the area of religion but also in the political sphere. The direction and desirability of that influence is a matter of dispute. J. M. Porter, a political scientist, here presents revealing selections from nine of Luther's more important writings, all excerpted from the American Edition of 'Luther's Works.' His texts suggest the complexity of the Reformer's thinking, its theological base, and the situational focus of his political utterances. Professor Porter also provides a helpful introduction in which he clarifies the meaning and implications of Luther's famous Òtwo kingdomsÓ theory, whereby the state is freed both from domination by the church and from the temptation to dominate the conscience of its citizens. Here are to be found generous excerpts from the seminal writings which shaped the Reformation and continue to influence the course of events in our time. They illustrate Luther's innovative ideas about the nature of temporal authority, political obligation and its limits, church-state relations, and political resistance, Luther's plain and often pungent words will be of interest to students of history, religion, political science, and ethics - to everyone concerned about the issues of freedom and authority, ideology and politics, violence and nonviolence, war and freedom.