528 - Luther on the Christian Home: An Application of the Social Ethics of the Reformation

Luther on the Christian Home: An Application of the Social Ethics of the Reformation
By William H. Lazareth
244 pp. Philadelphia, Muhlenberg Press, 1960. $3.75.

This volume attempts two things: It is an historical study in the theology and ethics of Martin Luther. It is also a contribution to the contemporary discussion in ethics, seeking to show the present relevance of Luther's thought. It comes off well in both respects, giving a clear and readable summary of the development of Luther's thought on marriage and the family, and formulating his ethical position with precision and simplicity.

The opening chapter reviews the historical development of Luther as theologian. His writings from 1515 to 1525 are examined in detail to discover the process of change from medieval Roman piety and theology to an evangelical doctrine of justification and its cognate ethical view-

529 - Luther on the Christian Home: An Application of the Social Ethics of the Reformation

point. The old and constantly recurring charge that Luther broke with the Church because of his desire to marry is examined. The author contends that Luther's marriage is in part a testimony to his new evangelical convictions on marriage and the home. The fact, moreover, that his marriage took place eight years after the beginning of the indulgence controversy does not contribute to the picture of a man driven by carnal appetites.

The remainder of the book expounds Luther's theology and ethics of marriage and the family. Against those who contend that Luther is theologically confused and ethically indifferent the author offers a crisp exposition of a consistent theological viewpoint having clear ethical implications and informed by intense moral passion. Basic is his recognition of the relationship between creation and redemption, law and gospel, civil and spiritual righteousness. The realms must be theologically distinguished but never separated, The same God works in the realm of creation through the structures of his created world and in the realm of redemption through the gospel. He works in different ways in the two realms, but his purpose is the same, the redemption of the world. Marriage belongs to the realm of creation and thus makes the same demands on all men regardless of their relationship to Christ-an insight of liberating and creative power in the western world.

The author is an enthusiastic expositor of Luther's thought, but attempts no hagiography. The historical limitations of Luther's thought are clearly recognized, and the weaknesses and lapses in his work as counselor are candidly acknowledged. The extenuating circumstances in the affair of Philip of Hesse are noted, but no attempt is made to white-wash Luther for his part in it.

Some will question the validity of a method which limits itself to Luther's works up to 1525. But this does not mean an arbitrary dismissal of the last two decades of Luther's work. Since he is concerned with the development of Luther's thought, these works are of primary importance, but the author shows acquaintance with the later Luther as well.

Warren A. Quanbeck
Luther Theological Seminary
St. Paul 8, Minnesota