Robert Kolb's scholarly pursuits delve into the heart of systematic theology, particularly examining the profound and enduring genius of Martin Luther's theological contributions. His writings offer readers an accessible yet rigorous exploration of foundational Christian thought, illuminating its historical context and ongoing relevance. Kolb's work is distinguished by its clarity and depth, inviting a deeper engagement with theological traditions and their intellectual heritage. He is dedicated to making complex theological ideas understandable to a wider audience.
The book contains four previously untranslated plays written by Hans Sachs, a playwright, shoemaker, and important supporter of Martin Luther. Sachs' well-known poem "The Wittenberg Nightingale" is also included here in a new translation and the collection will be a boon for researchers and students who can now read them for the first time.
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 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.
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 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.
"In conversations about the Reformation, the name Martin Luther towers above all others. And rightly so. His work, vision, and writings set Christianity on a course of events that would forever change the way that most believers live and understand their faith. And yet, the Reformation was far more than Martin Luther. Around Luther were hundreds of people - fellow teachers and priests, politicians, artists, printers, and spouses - without whose activity and work the Reformation would have progressed much differently. These women and men make up Luther's Wittenberg world, and there is much to be learned from engaging their work. In this monumental work, Robert Kolb introduces us to those individuals. Engaging and informative essays on the social, political, and economic realities of the sixteenth century frame brief introductions to over two hundred supporting "cast members" whose lives played out around Martin Luther. Comprehensively illustrated, with maps, bibliographies, and other resources, Luther's Wittenberg World is a treasure"--Publisher's website.
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.
At the 500th anniversary of the Wittenberg Reformation, two highly regarded scholars compare and contrast the history and theological positions of the Reformed and Lutheran traditions. The authors tackle nine theological topics significant for the life of the church that remain a source of division between the two traditions. The book helps readers evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the Reformed and Lutheran approaches to presenting the biblical message and invites honest, irenic, and open dialogue within the Protestant family.
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.
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.