The Theologia Germanica of Martin Luther

The Theologia Germanica of Martin Luther is a treatise translated from German to English by Susanna Winkworth was which was believed to have been written in the mid 14th century by an anonymous author. In 1516 Martin Luther discovered and published this work by an anonymous fourteenth-century German author who focuses on the “divine life,” which is directed or guided by the “true light” of God. Theologia Germanica proposes that God and man can be wholly united by following a path of perfection, as exemplified by the life of Christ, renouncing sin and selfishness, ultimately allowing God’s will to replace human will. The book influenced Martin Luther who published editions in 1516 and 1518, before his full break with the show more Catholic faith.

Although unknown, the author is thought to have been a member of a pious cult known as the Friends of God. Distinguished for their belief in the presence of God’s spirit in all Christians, laity and clergy alike, this secret association carefully observed all the precepts of the church. Their chief doctrines consisted of self-renunciation–the complete submission of self-will to the will of God–and the continuous activity of God in all believers. They further maintained a conviction in the possibility of an intimate union between God and humans and denied the value of religions based on fear or the hope of reward. The Theologia Germanica of Martin Luther offers an abundance of insightful spiritual advice, written in simply language and relevant to all Christian denominations. This edition also features an informative historical introduction by Susanna Winkworth.

Martin Luther said “Next to the Bible and St. Augustine, no book has ever come into my hands from which I have learnt more of God and Christ, and man and all things that are.” So for those interested in further study of Luther and the writings that played a great part in forming his theology this would be a good read. show less