Luther’s “The Freedom of a Christian”

Every Christian, especially those struggling with “faith vs. works”, should read this book. Also, the other basic writings of Luther help a lot. Don’t get too swallowed up into the “freedom of the will” controversy until you’ve set aside “faith vs. works.” It may be that I’m just more open now (though I’m still somewhat distant from the church), but I wish I had read this book years ago.

The Freedom of a Christian also shows, despite the rough language of some other of his writings, that Luther had a high opinion of Pope Leo X and was not above reaching out to him in humility and sincerity. This book shows an entirely different side to Luther, not always advertised by his critics. This edition includes Luther’s “Letter to Pope Leo X”. I recommend reading this letter along with the treatise. The two documents together are critical to understanding Luther and his thought.