Martin Luther: A Man Who Changed The World

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic Read.......2006-09-23

I came across this book while looking for other homeschooling books here at Amazon. Well, I ordered it and was extremely pleased! At Amazon you couldn't look through it like other books on-line so I took a chance and bought it. So glad I did. It almost brought tears to my eyes while reading it...knowing the strong, resolute faith Luther exhibited during a time when execution by the church was not an unknown practice. Truly a man of God who stood steadfast and unwavering in his beliefs and helped turn the tide against the church practices of his time. A great read and highly recommended.

Many of the major consequences of Luther's actions are not mentioned.......2006-07-20

Martin Luther was indeed a man who changed the world. When he posted the list of 95 theses on the door of a church, he started a massive movement that led to a series of revolutions in Europe. Fortunately for him, the time was ripe for such changes. First and foremost, the printing press had recently been invented. By allowing the words to be quickly and cheaply reproduced, his messages could be spread quickly. Secondly, one cannot ignore the political climate. Many members of the nobility of northern Europe were restless under the political control imposed by others in the south. Luther survived in the early years only through the protection of the powerful German princes.
Luther was also in many ways the founder of the modern German nation. By translating the bible from Latin into German, he helped develop the language and a national consciousness among the German populace. Fundamentally, Luther was a conservative, when the peasants revolted, he came down firmly on the side of the aristocracy, opposing mass movements when they were not religiously directed.
While this is a good bock for children and Luther deserves the accolades for his incredible achievements, not enough is mentioned about the significance of the political situation in Europe. Furthermore, there is no mention of the horrific religious wars that took place in Europe over the reformation and counter-reformation. Finally, there is little mention of how the newfound religious freedom allowed for the dramatic expansion of scientific exploration. Scientists such as the persecuted Galileo no longer had to fear the consequences of violating the dogma of the Catholic Church.

Great book on a great man........2006-07-04

I've read this to my children several times and they love it each time. This is a great introduction to Luther for younger readers or pre-readers.

better for older kids.......2004-12-27

Beautiful picture book highlighting the important events in Luther's life, and why the Reformation was the result. Great resource for introducing the subject to kids, but would disagree with the recommended age -- the vocabulary used and Luther's belief in the concept of grace (a person can't "earn" their way to heaven) a bit over the head of younger kids (4-6), altho they still will pick up on basic story. My experience with reading this to kids is that even those a bit older (8-10) will enjoy, and probably come away with a better grasp of the importance of Luther's life and teachings. I like that the author also touches on the fact that for all Luther's greatness, a few of his opinions (I believe much later in his life) weren't necessarily favorable -- allowing you to respect his genius without making him a "saint". Not at all "preachy" -- just a good overview of the story and Luther's beliefs. A book all Lutherans should read, but also important and interesting to those of other denominatons or just interested in history, as Luther's ideas ended up having an effect on many aspects of society (education, politics, banking, etc. -- you'll have to go beyond this book to discover why) which benefit us still today.

Excellent Resource.......2004-11-17

I cannot say enough about this work and this author. All of his children's books are beautifully illustrated and wonderful written. I'm saying this as a college guy... so it means a lot. This book is an excellent way to expose young children to Martin Luther, a true hero of the faith.

Please take a look at his other children's books... very first Christmas, Easter, Christians, etc. Also check out his fiction books such as "A Skeleton in God's Closet" and "Pontius Pilate." You can also check out his reactionary work to the da vinci code as well as his non-fiction works especially the autobiography of his father, Walter Maier, who was the first Lutheran Hour Speaker.

Blessings!!!

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Excellent Biography Plus Introduction to Luther's Theology
Luther the Reformer
Don't Buy Used
More than a biography
Best Basic book on Luther

Luther the Reformer
James M. Kittelson
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0806623152

Book Description

Engaging and authoritative, Kittleson's important and popular biography is here represented with a new cover and new note from the author. His single-volume biography has become a standard resource for those who wish to delve into the depths of the Reformer without drowning in a sea of scholarly concerns.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Biography Plus Introduction to Luther's Theology.......2005-04-16

Luther had many contributions to the history of the Christian church. He was the father of the Protestant reformation. Many of the reformers looked to him as inspiration, if nothing else. He also promoted the pillars of the Reformation: sola scriptura, sola fide, sola sacerdos, sola gracia, and sola Christe. He changed how people relate to God and impact people's daily lives. People denounced monastic vows and embraced marriage. Luther single-handedly weakened the power of the Catholic Church. By teaching Scripture, he undermined the sale of indulgences, destroyed the Church's sacramental system and undermined its ecclesiastical authority. The Church would be forced to clarify its teachings at the Council of Trent, which would push it farther away from the possibility of reform.

After just reading a tortorous biography on John Wesley, this biography was much better. Even while Kittleson discussed theology, he kept it interesting and in context.

Luther the Reformer.......2003-10-30

This is a terrific book, both for people who want a first book to read about Martin Luther, and for those who know the story well. Luther has been the subject of many biographies; Kittelson's book is unique in blending the development of Luther's theology with an account of the life of the man. Kittelson's expertise allows him to tell a complex story clearly and concisely. The book inspired me to read more about Luther, including some of his own writings.

Don't Buy Used.......2003-03-05

Book itself is fantastic and highly recommended. I just wanted to warn readers to not buy a used copy of this edition. I bought one that seemed to be in great shape but the paperback binding broke after only reading fifty pages and now all the pages are fallng out. Very annoying.

More than a biography.......2003-02-06

This fascinating book is a biography of that first and most famous of the Reformers, Martin Luther. However, it is much more than a biography. In this book, the author traces the evolution of Luther's theology, as he moved from being a faithfully conforming monk, to being a loyal reformer, to being a violent opponent of the Roman Catholic Church. Along the way, the author explains Luther's opinions, where they came from, and how they evolved.

I must say that I found this to be an absolutely riveting book. At first, I was somewhat worried that the author, a Lutheran professor, was taking far too biased of a look at Luther. However, this book is not intended to be an exposé, but a look at Luther's theology. All people, from all sides, presented in this book are covered in a sympathetic way, accepting them as they appeared, and not attributing any spurious attitudes or motives to them.

Overall, I found this book to be quite interesting and informative. If you are interested in Lutheran theology, or just reading about Martin Luther, then I highly recommend this book to you.

Best Basic book on Luther.......2001-01-23

This book easily eclipses Bainton's and others in providing an accurate, yet readable for the layman as well as pastor and scholar who wants to begin understanding Luther and the Reformation. Not bogged down with the scholarly drawl of painstakingly covering all the angles and previous opinions on this most intriguing of historial figures. Great maps and index. Highly recommened.

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A Great Introductory source for all
Martin Luther goes to Hollywood
A Gracious Gospel
Best "Entry Level" Biography of Luther Available
Beautiful book but weak in content

Luther: Biography of a Reformer
Frederick Nohl
Manufacturer: Concordia Publishing House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0758606516

Customer Reviews:

A Great Introductory source for all.......2006-08-13

For Lutherans and all others this provides some of the best history on Martin Luther, what he knew to be right and practiced. This is a very good book for anyone who has no knowledge of Luther's beginnings.

All will find this enlightening when you think of where we are today and the influence Martin had on the world before, during, and after the reformation. It's also an easy read.

Martin Luther goes to Hollywood.......2006-02-20

The "Biography of Luther" is a product of Concordia Publishing House, the publisher of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The book is more of an inspirational novel than an objective historical account. Also, the book is not based on primary research documents, but is a summary of the movie staring Joseph Fiennes, so, be prepared for a somewhat overly dramatic version of an infallible paragon of righteousness. Glossy photos of Martin Luther as portrayed by Joseph Fiennes are provided throughout. Written simply in the manner of a children's encyclopedia, "Luther" is an enjoyable and quick read.

A Gracious Gospel.......2005-08-29

Concisely written, Nohl gets to the point without many scholarly flourishes. This volume would make an excellent confirmation gift for Lutheran youth. Frederick Nohl's work is a reprinting of his original 1962 biography "Martin Luther: Hero of Faith" (Concordia Publishing House). The current version was meant to coincide with the 2003 release of the major motion picture "Luther" starring Joseph Fiennes, Alfred Molina and the late Sir Peter Ustinov. If you thirst for a more in-depth scholarly but still readable approach to this subject, try the classic "Here I Stand" by Roland H. Bainton.
Nohl accurately depicts reformer Luther's "middle way" between the Roman Church traditionalists and the newly spawned radicals like Andreas Carlstadt and Thomas Müntzer, advocates of complete political and theological revolution. Nor does Nohl soft-pedal Luther's frustration and awkward position during the Great Peasants' War in the Germany of 1524-25.
Of greatest importance, however, is that Martin Luther rediscovered the "Gospel of grace", freeing the true Gospel message from its obscurity by centuries of layered fear and superstition, the bitter fruits of self-serving human traditions and the general biblical ignorance of the populace. Europe was slowly emerging from the Middle Ages and could ill afford to look back. The message of a gracious Gospel would in time be disseminated to all Christendom and provide a safe haven for the concept of "freedom of conscience".
But the message isn't about Luther. He was both a self-acknowledged sinner and a saint (if only in the New Testament sense.) He would be taken aback by all the attention directed at him since the Reformation and be embarrassed that a major Protestant denomination had attached his name to themselves-quite against his wishes. He could not have imagined the extent of the social and political repercussions of his life.
No, it isn't about Luther: It's about the Christ to whom Luther pointed; it's about the Jesus who said that God has given us what we don't deserve and will never earn by our efforts. If you think of Martin Luther without remembering this, you've missed the point.

Best "Entry Level" Biography of Luther Available.......2005-06-12

It is a wonderful thing to know that there are so many excellent biographies of Luther available out there. This volume is the best "entry level" biography of Luther out there. This is the perfect volume for anyone who knows nothing, or only very little, about Martin Luther. It is well written, clear and gives you a great overview of Luther's life and work. Plus, it is very nicely printed, in hardback, with full color photos from the recent Luther movie. A tremendous bargain for only $10.50 or so.

Beautiful book but weak in content.......2004-12-30

Frederick Nohl was a North American Lutheran who had degrees in education (B.S., Concordia, River Forest, IL) and history (M.A., Northwestern, Evanston, IL). In his working career, he was a teacher and principal for a couple of Lutheran elementary schools in Illinois. So his abilities converged that allowed him to write an easy-to-read biography, which he did so in 1962. Luther: Biography of a Reformer is a renamed version of Nohl's original book, Luther: Hero of Faith.

Luther: Biography of a Reformer covers the early life of Luther and that segment of the Reformation well, but dedicates only a few pages to the last decade of Luther's life. Nohl paints with broad brush-strokes and is sometimes inaccurate in his descriptions. For example, after chaos began to hold sway in Wittenberg's churchly life in 1522, Luther returned from Wartburg to help to restore order by preaching his Invocavit sermons. Luther's fellow professor Karlstadt had changed the way the Lord's Supper was received: the laity were told to receive both the body and the blood of Christ--if not, they would be sinning! Nohl writes that when Luther returned, "Those who wanted to receive both the bread and the wine could do so, while those who wanted only the bread were also taken care of" (pg. 133). However, Luther did not do that; he restored communion under one kind until the situation could be sorted out without troubling anyone's conscience. For Luther considered liturgical changes as a blessing only if they came as Gospel gifts and not as coercive mandates of the Law, as Karlstadt had made them.

On Luther's revision of the Mass, Nohl writes that Luther's German Mass became the official order of service for Saxon churches in 1526 (pg. 150). This is true, but incomplete. Today, we hail Luther as a champion of the laity and promoter of the vernacular in the Divine Service. But Luther is not so simple to be classified so quickly. Luther intended his highly simplified Deutsche Messe (German Mass) only for small village churches with few resources--not as a repudiation of his own earlier and more strictly liturgical work, the Formula Missae of 1523. Luther's intent was that the poorly educated of Saxony could worship using the Deutsche Messe liturgy, especially in country congregations. Today, we should note this well when many among us use services so lacking of any formal liturgy that some among us now consider the Deutsche Messe of 1526 to be "high church"!

And the few times Nohl uses his pen to explain Luther's theology, he comes up wanting. On the term "Lutheran," Nohl correctly writes that "Luther and many of those supported him did not want to be called Lutherans" (pg. 182). Then he writes, "They preferred to be known simply as Christians, or as evangelicals" (pg 182). Again, what Nohl contends is true, but incomplete, for Lutherans also preferred the term "Evangelical Catholic." For Luther, true reformation was marked by a recapturing of Christianity's evangelical, catholic, and orthodox past. Luther did not want his reforms to end up within a sect; he wanted them to stand within that "great cloud of witnesses" (Hebrews 12:1) and testify to the living God in the "one holy, catholic, and apostolic church" of all time and space. The following quotation shows the philosophical view of the Lutheran reformers: "So we teach nothing . . . that is alien either to Scripture or to the church catholic. We have simply cleansed and brought into the light the most important statements in the Scriptures and the [Church] Fathers that had been obscured by the sophistic quarreling of recent theologians" (Kolb-Wengert, Apology of the Augsburg Confession: 1, I, 32)

When Nohl writes about Luther's understanding of the Gospel, he records, "Because of his faith in Christ, the believer is a `free lord, subject to no one'" (pg. 83). Luther understood that St. Paul never said that one is saved because of faith but through or by faith--the cause is always God's grace, Christ's work. Faith is God's gift to the believer and through God-given faith, the believer simply believes. To be correct, Nohl should have written, "By faith in Christ, the believer is a `free lord, subject to no one.'"

Concerning Luther's "Gospel discovery," Nohl describes it in this way: "I see the answer! God punished Jesus in my place, the same Jesus who had kept God's holy Law. By punishing His Son, God carried out His threat that sin will be punished by death. All I have to do is . . ." (pg. 47). Nohl's error to direct the reader inward is appalling because it misapprehends Luther's understanding of justification. Nohl's improper explanation directs a person to look to his own works, decision, or belief instead of Christ alone for salvation. It also robs a person of salvation's certainty because it directs him to his own efforts instead of Christ's. When Nohl explains Luther's Gospel discovery, he unwittingly puts the reader back under the Law. From that, Christ has set us free; the Gospel has no "ifs" or "strings" attached. I can hear Luther now cursing anathemas on Nohl's misunderstanding of the Gospel.

On the purely positive side, of all the chapters in the book, I found Chapter 10, "The Family Man," to be jewel to seek out. It that chapter, Nohl gives a glimpse of the man Luther, and his relationship with his wife and children. Nohl's retelling of Luther losing two of his daughters to death shows forth Luther's humanity for all to see, as well as his confidence in Christ in such a true, personal way. Especially touching was a letter Luther had written to his son, Hans (pgs. 170-173).

In his book, Luther: Biography of a Reformer, Nohl has written an engaging and quick read. However, Nohl takes some license when he "connects the dots" of Luther's life, taking some liberties and distorting what may have really happened. In addition, parts of his book are more of a hagiography than a biography. Finally, Nohl's casual explanations of Luther's theology makes Luther seem more like an American Protestant than a German reformer. Despite the parts of the book I enjoyed, and its very beautiful format, I do not recommend Nohl's biography.

Martin Luther: The Preservation of the Church 1532-1546

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A look at the post-reformation Luther
Well Done Conclusion to this Series on Luther

Martin Luther: The Preservation of the Church 1532-1546
Martin Brecht
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Pub
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0800627040

Book Description

The third volume of Brecht's magnificent biography describes the final fourteen years of Luther's life, beginning with the accession of Elector John Frederick in 1532. The period is often treated briefly because some Reformation developments continued without him, his Catholic opponents paid only partial attention to him, his personality displayed great tensions, and his judgment, errors. Yet the preservation of the church---those confessing the Reformation gospel being identical, according to Luther, with the true church---dominated Luther's concerns.

A work of immense and engaging scholarship, gracefully translated by James Schaaf, this volume offers comprehensive and original interpretations of Luther's private life, his congregation and the church in Saxony, his professorial lectures and theological controversies, Bible translations, Luther and the Council of Trent, and his later writings about the Jews and Turks. Includes thirty-four illustrations.

Customer Reviews:

A look at the post-reformation Luther.......2005-02-23

This is the third volume of a trilogy on the Life of Martin Luther. (The other volumes are: "Martin Luther: His Road to Reformation," and "Martin Luther: Shaping and Defining the Reformation.") This volume deals with Luther's life after the glory days of the 95 Theses, Diet of Worms, and gradual acceptance and establishment of the Reformation. Luther the Doctor of Theology is beset by health problems and grows old and cantankerous, having limited patience to respond to the errors of supporters and opponents alike. Enduring great physical illness and miseries, he longs for life to end. But he continues to guide Melancthon and other reformers as they develop the foundational documents of Lutheran theology. At the end of his life, he confidently affirms the gospel he has preached.

Many histories of Luther gloss over this period in his life. It was therefore interesting to see how the aged Luther continued to face ordinary problems of politics and church governance, and also ever-emerging errors in theology among those who accepted the reformation as well as its opponents. He continued to face his "Anfectungen" (feelings of despair and condemnation) and frequently needed to cling to Christ's mercy and be reminded of the Gospel. I found this comforting, to see that even such a giant of the faith was not immune to doubt all through his life.

This volume is shorter than the preceding two, and I feel that maybe the author rushed through it a little bit, as it does not seem as in-depth as his earlier volumes. However, I am glad that he pressed forward to complete the trilogy and allow us to see this part of Luther's life. This volume also includes interesting illustrations, including a drawing of Luther a year before his death, showing his physical decline, the house where Luther died, his gravestone, a cast of his hands, and a drawing of the dead Luther's face.

Well Done Conclusion to this Series on Luther.......2003-10-14

As Brecht so correctly titles this final volume of three on the life of Luther, this was the theme of his final sixteen years: the preservation of the church.

He was obsessed with the proclamation of the pure gospel. His final years were devoted to this cause, and Brecht preserves this history in his continued easy to read style, but very scholarly and historically accurate.

While all around him toil and turmoil reigned against this pure gospel and its valued proclamation, the Reformer remainded steadfast in spite of failing health. His disputes with those who wanted to reform too much as well as political problems and disputes even within those of the Lutheran persuasion all troubled him. At times his patience wore thin, and there were signs of anger and rudeness were exhibited. But, my God, what this endured and his steadfastness to the Gospel and God's means of salvation are phenomenal and to followed.

Customer Reviews:

Fascinating depth on the issues of the Reformation.......2005-02-23

This is the second of a trilogy covering Luther's life. (The other volumes are: "Martin Luther: His Road to Reformation," and "Martin Luther: The Preservation of the Church.") This edition takes us from the posting of the 95 Theses, the debate with Eck, the Diet of Worms and the major events of Luther's reformation. One gains great respect for the depth of Luther's insights and his courage in standing up for his understanding of the Gospel.

The author summarizes the content of many writings against/by Luther during this period. Particularly fascinating to me was the exchange between Erasmus' "The Freedom of the Will" and Luther's "On the Bondage of the Will." Two master theologians go at it head to head, describing the heart of the Gospel teaching, and whether we can do anything to merit salvation or whether it is all by God's grace. This is truly "meat" and not "milk" for the seeking reader, with enduring relevance for modern-day Christians.

Thorough, Accurate and Interesting Reading.......2003-09-12

This definitive bio of Luther in three volumes, is here in the second volume capturing the middles period, 1521-1532. Here the implications of the theological reform were being carried out.

Amazingly, the impact of the freeing of the monasteries and nunneries is immense. From there the liturgical reforms and political with the Phesants War loom large as well.

All culminates at Augsburg, with the remarkable Confession, weak Confutation, and subsequent Apology to the Augustana.

Brecht certainly is meticulous and careful historian, whose documentation is precise and enormous in its breath and depth. This set will stand the test for years and be of great asset to all those seeking to follow this amazing follower of Christ to the life of the world.

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Impressive captivation of the workings of providence

Excellent, readable, interesting like all D'Aubigne's works

More detail than I had ever known about Luther (pt 1)

The Triumph of Truth: A Life of Martin Luther
Jean Henri Merle D'Aubigne
Manufacturer: BJU Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0890848769

Book Description

And though this world, with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God has willed
His truth to triumph through us.

From "A Mighty Fortress is Our God"

Across the centuries, these words from the pen of Martin Luther testify mightily of the courage and faith of their author. God's grace transformed him from a fearful monk in anguish about his soul's salvation into a giant of the Faith who shook Europe by declaring boldly once again the words of the apostle Paul: "The just shall live by faith."

Luther's story was never better told than by Swiss historian Jean Henri Merle d'Aubigné. The liveliness of Merle's style, his extensive and remarkable use of original quotations, and the rich biographical color of his work make it enjoyable to read. More than that, Merle's evangelical fervor, his commitment to biblical truth, and his fundamental sympathy with the spirit of the Reformation strike a responsive chord in the heart of the Christian.

Customer Reviews:

Impressive captivation of the workings of providence.......2002-10-11

I was initially reserved in my approach to the book 'cos I thought it would be boring and would contain too much theology.
I was proven wrong. I could see the interplay of man and God in shaping our history and now fully understand that indeed "He works all things after the counsel of his own will". I was taken with the literary style that I could not put it down desiring to find out what would happen next to Luther. It is awesome to know that Omniscience wields Omnipotence to achieve the counsel of the Omnipresent God.

Excellent, readable, interesting like all D'Aubigne's works.......1999-02-21

I have read this book under separate title, and D'Aubigne presents in it a wonderful picture of Luther the man, from the perspective of an author who knows Luther's Lord. Much more readable than Bainton's work, and with a touch of the older style of writing that has now been lost.

More detail than I had ever known about Luther (pt 1).......1998-10-24

This is a very good book about Martin Luther. Before I read this book, I did not know what he wrote his theses about, but now I know he wrote it to condemn the evil sale of indulgences.

Martin Luther: The Great Reformer (Heroes of the Faith)

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Poor, poor job of editing and it leaves out the best part!
MEET THE REFORMERS' ANCHOR-POINT
interesting light reading

Martin Luther: The Great Reformer (Heroes of the Faith)
Dan Harmon
Manufacturer: Barbour Publishing, Incorporated
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1557487278

Book Description

Recognizing from Romans 1 that God gives believers in Christ a positive righteousness, Luther refused to be silenced and became the great reformer.

Customer Reviews:

Poor, poor job of editing and it leaves out the best part!.......2004-07-27

Synopsis: A brief biography of Luther's life. Part of a series of approximately 20 books entitled Heroes of the Faith. Evidently, it is edited and abridged from a larger work by one Dan Harmon.

My review: Mr. Harmon has done a poor, poor, poor job of editing a larger work. Really bad. The book has large, direct quotes from other sources, including big chunks of the questioning of Luther at the Diet of Worms in 1521. This is most appropriate since Luther was a well-spoken as well as plain-spoke debater. His text is lively and interesting to read. Even to the modern reader his meaning is quite clear and devoid of all of the flowery Renaissance nonsense that entraps other writers and bores me to distraction.

However, Harmon edited out Luther's most famous line: 'My conscience is captive to the Word of God...Here I stand I can do no other.' This is the image of Luther presented in every school book in the world - the solitary monk standing up to the entire church and against all of Europe's kings at the Diet of Worms on a matter of conscience and refusing to blink because, by God (literally), he thinks he is right and is willing to die for that belief. In my mind, this is one of those moments of heroism that everyone should admire, even if you are not a believer. But, this editor edited it out!!! The height of his shining moment - gone!!

Ironically, that quote is featured on the back of the book - it is in bold print and serves as the headline for the description of the book! AARRGH! Even sillier, the editor has left in a one page description of Charles the Elector's retinue and the parade as they entered Augusburg in 1530. Wow!!!! - if they were trying to limit the size of the book, they really edited out the wrong part!!!! Who really cares what color his men wore as they paraded into town!

My grade: The book is, in general, informative and would serve as a decent introduction to Luther. However, I cannot forgive the very poor editing job. Imagine a Lincoln biography without the Gettysburg Address, a Martin Luther King, Jr. biography without his 'I have a dream speech' or a Julius Caesar biography without 'Vini, vidi, vici.' Man, my blood is up. Imagine, printing this whole book and EDITING OUT THE POINT!!!!!!! Really, I cannot stress my irritation enough, as you all can surely tell by this point...

***Reviewer's note: please read the comment section. The editor of the text made a few comments that explain the "Diet of Worms" section was left out. Thanks, DWD 3-14-07

MEET THE REFORMERS' ANCHOR-POINT.......2002-12-29

This German-born Martin Luther was the most prominent of all the Sixteenth Century reformers (as well as counter-reformers). His life became his religious struggle. Though he won some and lost some, he became a symbol of religious defiance to his adversaries, and an anchor-point to his disciples.
This book did not detail us on the reason why some of his co-reformers parted ways with him; but I did enjoy the time I invested on reading it.

interesting light reading.......2001-07-18

I picked this up at a Christian book store for half price. This is an abridged book in a series on famous Christians (mostly Protestant). The author, who is clearly sympathetic with Luther's cause, devotes more attention to Luther's personal relationships and political struggle than to his theology. However, this is probably appropriate for the intended audience (the book store located it near the young readers' section). I can't compare the book to others since this is the first I've read on the topic, but I've personally found it to be an enjoyable read.

Four reformers: Luther, Melanchthon, Calvin, Zwingli

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Four reformers: Luther, Melanchthon, Calvin, Zwingli
Kurt Aland
Manufacturer: Augsburg Pub. House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

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ASIN: 0806617098

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