Robert Kolb Books

Exploring the tension between free will and divine sovereignty, this work reflects Martin Luther's response to Erasmus' teachings. Luther argues that human will is bound by sin, challenging the notion of free will in matters of salvation. Through rigorous theological debate, he emphasizes the necessity of God's grace, asserting that true freedom comes from surrendering to divine authority. This pivotal text is foundational to Reformation thought, influencing subsequent theological discourse on faith and human agency.

A World-Class Scholar on Luther's Use of ScriptureThe Reformation revolutionized church life through its new appreciation for God's presence working through the Bible. Coinciding with the five hundredth anniversary of the beginning of the Reformation, this volume explains how Luther's approach to the Bible drew his colleagues and contemporary followers into a Scripture-centered practice of theology and pastoral leadership. World-class scholar Robert Kolb examines the entire school of interpretation launched by Luther, showing how Luther's students continued the study and spread of God's Word in subsequent generations. Filled with fresh insights and cutting-edge research, this major statement provides historical grounding for contemporary debates about the Bible.

This volume examines the process by which the teaching and method of Luther and Melanchton was carried forward during the transition from "Reformation" to the settled forms of church life called "Protestant Orthodoxy". It shows how Luther's and Melanchton's students strove to convey the insights of their mentors to their own age, within the academic and political context in which they lived; and how the method and teaching of the two Wittenberg reformers shaped the thought and ecclesiastical life of following generations.

Key features include: Focus on key questions, exploring the whole system of law and its practical working Covers the main principles, sources of law and implementation Leads the reader to think through the topic Concise and accessible, whilst taking a rigorous approach.

The book explores Martin Luther's transformative theology, which redefined the understanding of God and humanity by challenging Aristotelian views. It emphasizes the significance of the Revealed God and unconditioned grace. Robert Kolb examines the evolution of Luther's thought against the backdrop of late medieval theology and piety, highlighting the profound impact of these ideas at the onset of the modern era.

Nikolaus von Amsdorf, a key figure in the early Evangelical movement, was a close friend of Martin Luther and a prominent theologian who lived longer than Luther. As the only nobleman in Luther's inner circle, he was a staunch defender of authentic Lutheran beliefs and played a significant role in shaping the Formula of Concord during the theological disputes following Luther's death. Despite his critical contributions to Lutheran theology, his legacy remains largely unknown today, overshadowed by more prominent figures of the Reformation.

The book provides an in-depth analysis of international law by examining its fundamental characteristics and the interplay between law and politics. It highlights how political dynamics influence the implementation of legal frameworks on a global scale. Additionally, the discussion delves into essential socio-legal concepts such as common good, justice, legal security, and ethics, exploring their significance and interconnectedness within the international legal order. This comprehensive approach sheds light on the complexities and challenges facing international law today.

Focusing on maritime delimitation jurisprudence, the book offers a structured analysis of various cases through consistent headings. Each case is examined in terms of its geographical context, party arguments, unique features, detailed judgments, and individual opinions, alongside academic commentary and a bibliography. This systematic approach allows readers to compare cases effectively while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the legal principles involved.

Focusing on the evolution of martyrdom and sainthood within German Lutheranism, Robert Kolb provides a comprehensive analysis of how these concepts were redefined during the Reformation. His expertise sheds light on the significant impact martyrs had on Christian thought, theology, and piety, illustrating their crucial role in shaping religious identity and practice in this historical context.

The narrative explores the life of a transformative figure, detailing his journey from a young entrepreneurial background to becoming a prominent university professor and public figure. It captures the complexities of his relationships and the polarized views of his contemporaries, showcasing both admiration and animosity toward him. Supplemented by "interviews" with figures from the sixteenth century, the book reveals the intense passions and conflicts surrounding his reformative impact, illustrating how he was perceived as either a prophet or a threat to societal norms.