The Table Talk of Martin Luther
Overview
The contents of this book were gathered by Luther’s friends and disciples, chiefly by Antony Lauterbach and John Aurifaber (Goldschmidt), who spent much time with the great Reformer towards the end of his life. They consist of notes of his discourses, his opinions, and his cursory observations. They record words spoken in the freedom of private friendship, during his walks, during the performance of his clerical duties, and at the table. This volume also includes Luther’s Catechism.
In the Logos edition, this volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.
Top Highlights
“When I find myself assailed by temptation, I forthwith lay hold of some text of the Bible, which Jesus extends to me” (Page 3)
“Since the time of the apostles, threescore general and provincial councils have been held, among which only four are especially worthy of praise; two, those of Nicea and Constantinople, maintained and defended the Trinity and the godhead of Christ; the other two, those of Ephesus and Chalcedon, maintained Christ’s humanity. In the council of Nicea nothing is written or mentioned of any pope or bishop of Rome, as being there; only one bishop from the west, Ozius, bishop of Cordova, was present. The other bishops came from the churches in the east, Greece, Asia Minor, Egypt, Africa, &c.” (Page 227)
“He had been earnestly exhorting them to come and listen to the Word of God: ‘Well,’ said they, ‘if you will tap a good barrel of beer for us, we’ll come with all our hearts and hear you.’ The gospel at Wittenberg is like unto the rain which, falling upon a river, produces little effect; but descending upon a dry, thirsty soil, renders it fertile.’” (Pages 8–9)
“The Holy Scriptures surpass in efficaciousness all the arts and all the sciences of the philosophers and jurists; these, though good and necessary to life here below, are vain and of no effect as to what concerns the life eternal. The Bible should be regarded with wholly different eyes from those with which we view other productions.” (Page 4)
“No greater mischief can happen to a Christian people, than to have God’s word taken from them, or falsified, so that they no longer have it pure and clear. God grant we and our descendants be not witnesses of such a calamity.” (Page 6)
About Martin Luther
Martin Luther 1483–1546) was a key figure in the Protestant Reformation and one of the most significant figures in Western history. Over the course of his life, he was a monk, a priest, a professor of biblical literature, a Reformer, a husband, and a father.
Luther is most noted for his 95 Theses (1517), in which he argues that indulgences are not acts of penance which can replace true repentance. In 1520, Pope Leo X and Holy Roman Emperor Charles V demanded that Luther retract all of his writings. Luther refused. He was subsequently excommunicated and declared an outlaw.
Luther has been both praised and vilified for what he preached and wrote. His translation of the Christian Bible into the vernacular greatly influenced the church. His works continue to impact all Christians and animate the movement that bears his name. His works are also represented in Martin Luther’s Basic Theological Writings and the Luther’s Works collection.
Reviews
1 rating
Richard
8/4/2021
A wonderful book to read. Luther was a man that would die for his convictions. Something which is often missing in many modern-day professors, theologians, preachers and so forth. Christianity tries to be relevant by wanting to be favoured in the world's eyes. Probably one of the greatest weaknesses of our days. By reading Luther, we can discover the power of a strong conviction. A man that stood against some of the strongest forces in that time. When are we brave enough to stand against the heresies and injustices of our time? Next, this book also shows the reader much of Luther time often expressed in a humorous manner. A must-read even if you do not agree with Martin(Maarten) Luther all the time.