The development of Martin Luther’s thought was both a symptom and moving force in the transformation of the Middle Ages into the modern world. Geographical discovery, an emerging scientific tradition, and a climate of social change had splintered the unity of medieval Christian culture, and these changes provided the background for Luther’s theological challenge. His new apprehension of Scripture and fresh understanding of man’s relation to God demanded a break with the Church as then constituted and released the powerful impulses that carried the Reformation.
Luther’s vigorous, colorful language still retains the excitement it had for thousands of his contemporaries. In this volume, Dr. Dillenberger has made a representative selection from Luther’s extensive writings, and has also provided the listener with a lucid introduction to his thought.
John Dillenberger (1918–2008) was a Professor of Historical Theology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California. As a historian of science, Dillenberger specialized in the relations of religion and science. For three decades, his book Protestant Thought and Natural Science was a leading introductory survey.
Martin Luther (1483–1546) was a German scholar, priest, theologian, and religious reformer and is considered one of the chief figures in European history. Arguing that money couldn’t buy freedom from God’s punishment for one’s sins, he laid the foundation for Protestant Reformation and greatly influenced the fields of politics, religion, education, and economics through his work and writings.
Bob Souer is a full-time professional storyteller, voice actor, and AudioFile Earphones Award–winning narrator. He has narrated broadcast and nonbroadcast projects for corporations and ministries across North America. His voice has been heard on PBS, the History Channel, the Military Channel, and many other networks. He has also narrated radio and television programs for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, D. James Kennedy Ministries, SIM, and Compassion International.