The Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude Preached and Explained   By: Martin Luther (1483-1546)

In "The Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude Preached and Explained by Martin Luther," readers are presented with a collection of sermons and reflections that delve into the biblical texts of two important New Testament figures. Martin Luther, known as a key figure in the Protestant Reformation, offers his insightful interpretations and teachings in this thought-provoking book.

One of the remarkable aspects of this book is the depth of Luther's understanding of scripture. He skillfully intertwines his theological expertise with historical context, allowing readers to grasp the intended meaning behind the letters of St. Peter and St. Jude. Luther's extensive knowledge of the Bible and his ability to explain its messages in a clear and relatable manner make this book accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

The sermons presented in this collection tackle a range of topics, from faith and grace to the challenges faced by early Christians. Luther's words resonate with a timeless quality, offering guidance and comfort to contemporary individuals seeking spiritual nourishment. He emphasizes the fundamental principles of Christianity, urging readers to concern themselves with personal piety and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

One of the book's strengths lies in its practicality. Luther's interpretations are not limited to abstract theological ponderings; rather, he provides practical applications for believers' lives. He encourages readers to lead lives of integrity, to love and serve their neighbors, and to remain firm in their beliefs amidst adversity. This emphasis on practicality ensures that readers will not only gain knowledge from reading this book but also be inspired to apply these teachings in their own lives.

Moreover, Luther's writing style captivates the reader's attention, making the book engaging and enjoyable to read. Even though the sermons were written several centuries ago, Luther's words still possess a level of enthusiasm and conviction that resonates with and inspires readers today. His passionate dedication to the Word of God shines through each page, creating a compelling reading experience.

However, it is worth noting that this book may not be suitable for those seeking an objective or scholarly analysis of the epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude. Luther's interpretations are deeply rooted in his own theological convictions and his reformist agenda. While this provides valuable insights into Luther's perspective, readers should approach this book with an understanding of the historical and theological context in which it was written.

In conclusion, "The Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude Preached and Explained by Martin Luther" offers a compelling collection of sermons that shed light on the biblical texts of two significant figures. Luther's theological expertise, practical applications, and engaging style make this book a valuable resource for both individuals seeking spiritual guidance and those interested in understanding Luther's perspective on these epistles.

First Page:

Several years ago, among the dusty piles of old pamphlets stored away upon the upper shelves of the Union Theological Seminary library, I met with several works of Luther, in the original editions, as they were issued during his lifetime from his press at Wittemberg. Among them were his Commentaries, or rather Lectures, on the Epistles of Peter and Jude.[1] The forbidding aspect of the page, with the obsolete spelling of its words, and its somewhat coarse typography, was rather an incitement to master it; for here was Luther, presenting himself to the eye of the reader just as, more than three hundred years ago, he presented himself to the eyes of thousands of his countrymen. Upon a partial perusal of the Commentary, I became satisfied that it would repay a more attentive study; and finding, upon investigation, that it had never been translated into English, I set myself to the task which had been so long neglected... Continue reading book >>