By Dr. Martin Luther
Commentary on the Epistle to The Galatians. (1535)
By Dr. Martin Luther.
Translated by Theodor Graebner.
Martin Luther’s commentary on the Epistle to the Galatians:
It is one of his most significant works. This commentary, written in 1535, provides Luther’s in-depth theological insights into the New Testament book of Galatians. Here are some key aspects of Luther’s commentary on Galatians:
Focus on Justification by Faith:
Luther’s commentary on Galatians is renowned for its emphasis on the doctrine of justification by faith. He explores the Apostle Paul’s teachings in Galatians, particularly in chapters 2 and 3, which highlight the centrality of faith in Christ for salvation.
Polemical Tone:
Luther’s commentary is written with a polemical tone, as he strongly opposes what he perceived as legalistic tendencies within the Catholic Church. He argues against the idea that human works contribute to justification, asserting that faith alone is the means by which individuals are justified before God.
Freedom in Christ:
Luther’s commentary on Galatians underscores the freedom believers have in Christ. He contends that the Christian is liberated from the burden of the law and is justified solely by faith in Christ’s redemptive work.
Theology of the Cross:
Luther’s commentary delves into his theology of the cross, emphasizing the paradoxical nature of God’s power being revealed in weakness. This is a recurring theme in Luther’s writings, and it finds expression in his interpretation of Galatians.
Practical Application:
While focusing on theological nuances, Luther also provides practical applications of the biblical text. He addresses how believers should live in light of their justification by faith and how they should relate to the law.
Influence on Reformation Theology:
Luther’s commentary on Galatians played a crucial role in shaping Reformation theology. His understanding of justification and faith alone became foundational principles for many Protestant traditions.
The Translator Theodor Graebner.
The preparation of this edition of Luther’s Commentary on Galatians was first suggested to me by Mr. P. J. Zondervan, of the firm of publishers, in March, 1937. The consultation had the twofold merit of definiteness and brevity.
“Luther is still the greatest name in Protestantism. We want you to help us publish some leading work of Luther’s for the general American market. Will you do it?”
“I will, on one condition.”
“And what is that?”
“The condition is that I will be permitted to make Luther talk American, ‘streamline’ him, so to speak—because you will never get people, whether in or outside the Lutheran Church, actually to read Luther unless we make him talk as he would talk today to Americans.”
I illustrated the point by reading to Mr. Zondervan a few sentences from an English translation lately reprinted by an American publisher, of one of Luther’s outstanding reformatory essays. The demonstration seemed to prove convincing for it was agreed that one may as well offer Luther in the original German or Latin as expect the American church-member to read any translations that would adhere to Luther’s German or Latin constructions and employ the Mid- Victorian type of English characteristic of the translations now on the market.
“And what book would be your choice?”
“There is one book that Luther himself likes better than any other. Let us begin with that: his Commentary on Galatians…”
The importance of this Commentary on Galatians for the history of Protestantism is very great. It presents like no other of Luther’s writings the central thought of Christianity, the justification of the sinner for the sake of Christ’s merits alone.
May the reader accept with indulgence where in this translation we have gone too far in modernizing Luther’s expression—making him “talk American.”
THEODORE GRAEBNER
St. Louis, Missouri
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