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Treatise on Good Works

Dr. Martin Luther

Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a leader of the Protestant Reformation and namesake of the Lutheran Tradition. He was born in Eisleben and was well-educated before entering the University of Erfurt. It was there that, rather than pursue an advanced law degree, Luther became an Augustinian monk. Between 1505 and 1512 he studied and lectured in theology, punctuated by achievement of his Doctorate at Wittenberg. By 1517 Luther was realizing in full the doctrine of justification by faith, as declared by the apostle Paul and Augustine. His publication of 95 theses against indulgences sparked protest throughout Germany, forcing Luther to defend his theology in disputations at Heidelberg and Leipzig. His treatises of 1520 brought him into greater conflict with the papacy, and he was excommunicated. After the Diet of Worms in 1521, he continued to define and uphold his theology, seeking to reform the Church, emphasizing the authority of Scripture and the Pauline doctrine of justification.

Luther's attempt to describe the essence of good works in light of faith and the commandments of God.

This treatise, written in 1520, originated as an intended sermon by Luther in his occasional duties as pastor of Wittenberg (where he taught at the University). In part it was instigated by George Spalatin, court preacher of Prince Frederick the Elector of Saxony, and was finally dedicated to the prince's brother. An emphasis on good works and cultivation of morality was always appealing to rulers, but Luther was also responding to concerns and accusations that his doctrine of justification by faith resulted in neglect and devaluing of good works and consequent morality. In this treatise, Luther attempts to describe the essence of good works in terms of faithfully obeying and fulfilling the commandments of God.

Church History

Reformation