Martin Luther and the Protestant Movement

Joy of the Christian Journey

Surely everyone has heard of Martin Luther. He condemned clerical abuses and defended his interpretation of Scripture, boldly declaring: “Here I stand; I cannot do otherwise.” Millions of Christians around the world admire Luther, and associate him with the noble ideals of reason, independence, and courage. But, how well do we really know this man, who is synonymous with the Reformation? Scripture tells us to remember our leaders and “consider the outcome of their way of life;” and Jesus said: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Heb 13:7 and John 13:35) Did Luther, in his words and deeds, reflect the character of Christ? Was he known for his love? Having carefully reviewed Luther’s writings, sermons, and speeches, Father Joseph Karl Verres introduces the reformer in his own words in Martin Luther and the Protestant Movement — volume four in a four-part series, subtitled Joy of the Christian Journey. “Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches.” (Rev 2:28)