DE 5500 The Theology of Martin Luther

Lecturer: Robert Kolb

Course Description

This course surveys the background and setting of Luther's thought as well as his teaching on the range of topics which form Christian theology. It focuses on Luther's doctrines of sin and grace, justification and faith, law and gospel, as well as on his understanding of Christian daily living in the midst of God's callings within the world. Three hours.

Course Objective

To understand the historical background of Luther's thought in his own career and in the intellectual context of late medieval theology.
To understand the chief points in Luther's theology on the critical topics discussed in his era and relevant to twentieth century Christian thought.
To understand and be able to identify Luther's law/gospel hermeneutic at work within the entire structure of his exposition of the biblical message.
To be able to interpret Luther's sixteenth century concerns within their own historical setting and in their significance for later periods of church history, including the turn of the twenty-first century.
To appreciate Luther's combination of faithfulness to the biblical text and his deep concern for the comfort of Christian consciences and the proper exercise of the Christian faith by all believers.

Course Materials

All required course materials can be purchased through the TEDS bookstore (800.456.7323/ 847.317.6800).

Required Reading

Kolb, Robert. The Theology of Martin Luther, Audio lecture series and Study Guide. Grand Rapids: Institute of Theological Studies, a division of OUTREACH, INC., 1986, 1999
Kolb, Robert. Martin Luther as Prophet, Teacher, Hero: Images of the Reformer, 1520-1620. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2000.
Lull, Timothy F. Martin Luther's Basic Theological Writings. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1989.

Note: Students should read a minimum of 750 pages from the following secondary texts or from primary sources.