Luther's Meditation on the Gospels

Book excerpt: 'Can the bones of Luther's sermons live again?' In Luther's Meditation on the Gospels, Roland H. Bainton presents some of Luther's most timeless and resonant sermons and lectures, arranged in order of the gospel accounts of Jesus' life. From the beginning of his ministry to the crucifixion and resurrection, Luther's insight into a wide range of key passages is displayed. Bainton's careful selections of excerpts ensures that Luther's marvel at God's love, his belief in salvation through divine grace and human faith, and more, remains effervescent. Bainton provides an illuminating introduction, placing the texts in their historical context and explaining the technicalities of translation. Also included are numerous woodcuts from the 1562 edition of Luther's Bible, further enriching our appreciation of the reformer's thought. Sixty years on from its original publication, Luther's Meditation on the Gospels remains a valuable contribution to Reformation studies.