The first important thing to realize in interpreting this essay is that Luther is arguing against the theologians of the universities, whom he refers to as sophists ( a term that appears first on p. 45). They are the ones who speak to the Catholic position concerning secular authority: that Christ's injunctions in the sermon on the mount apply only to those who aspire to a level of perfection beyond that of ordinary Christians; that is, to clergy (priests and monks). Recall that according to the decrees of the Fourth Lateran Council (1215), clergy were especially fobidden to engage in any action that involved the shedding of blood. This includes hunting and serving as a soldier; it also includes serving in a position of authority in government that could lead to administering the death penalty. The laity, on the other hand, are not held to the same standard, and so laymen may perform certain actions (making war, executing criminals) that are necessary to the preservation of order.

Rather than divide the world between the clergy and the laity, Luther teaches that there are two kingdoms: the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world. My first question to you is: Who is in each of these two groups? How are people of both kingdoms distributed throughout society? What is the difference between them?

• For whom is the law created? Who is bound by it?
• Why do Christians serve the governing authorities?
• Who needs to make use of the deadly force that such authorities control?
• On what basis can a true Christian bear the sword?
• Pay particular attention to Luther's use of Romans 13 on p. 53.
• What do Christians do when their rulers are not Christian?
• What use are Christians allowed to make of government?
• What are the limits of temporal (secular) authority?

Luther Friendly Admonition to Peace

The selection you have here was written before the peasant revolt was in full swing, as the peasants were preparing themselves for what was to come. The editor of our volume has neglected to include the most inflammatory of Luther's statements, written in the aftermath of the revolt. That particular piece is in your course reader, Against the Robbing and Murdering Hordes of Peasants. In the Hillerbrand reading, Luther has a message for both sides in the conflict.

• What passages can you find in Luther's address to the nobility that clarify and express his position as a religious leader counseling princes? Are you surprised by anything that he says in this section
• What passages can you find in his address to the peasants that clarify his position regarding the use of the gospel to achieve social justice? 
• What is he advising the peasants to do? If you were they, would you be satisfied with this advice?
• Take a look at Against the Robbing and Murdering Hordes of Peasants in your reading packet. How does Luther as a Christian justify his position in this piece? 

Laurel Carrington carringt@stolaf.edu
Most recent update: October 8, 2007

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